Chocolate and caramel cake

Chocolate and Caramel Cake: A Homemade Delight for Special Moments

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't love a decadent cake with chocolate and caramel that delights both the senses and the soul? This chocolate and caramel cake is a perfect choice for festive occasions or simply to treat your loved ones. With a slightly moist texture and an intense chocolate flavor, it's impossible not to fall in love with this recipe. Let's discover together the necessary steps to prepare it!

Ingredients needed

For the base:
- 6 egg whites
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g ground walnuts
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking ammonia

For the creams:
- 250 g white chocolate
- 250 g dark chocolate
- 12 tablespoons oil
- 10 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pack margarine
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 vanilla essence
- 1 rum essence
- 200 g ground walnuts

Preparing the Chocolate and Caramel Cake

Step 1: Preparing the base

The first step is to focus on the base. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you achieve a stiff and glossy foam. This process will give the base an airy and light texture. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until it completely dissolves, and the mixture becomes shiny.

Once you have achieved a perfect foam, add the ground walnuts and the baking ammonia. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the foam's surface and carefully fold it in, mixing from the bottom up to avoid losing air in the mixture.

When the batter is ready, spread it evenly in a 30x35 cm baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake it in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30-40 minutes or until it turns beautifully golden. Check if it is baked by using a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the base is ready!

After baking, let it cool completely. This step is essential because the chocolate cream will only be applied to a cooled base.

Step 2: White chocolate cream

To obtain a smooth white chocolate cream, grate the chocolate and melt it together with 6 tablespoons of oil in a bowl over steam or in the microwave. Mix well until the chocolate becomes homogeneous, then add the vanilla essence.

After the base has cooled, spread the white chocolate cream evenly over it. Ensure it is evenly covered, then let it set in the fridge. It is very important for the chocolate to set well before adding the next cream.

Step 3: Caramel cream

In a saucepan, caramelize 10 tablespoons of sugar, stirring constantly to prevent burning. When the sugar turns golden and liquid, add the margarine cubes and stir until they completely melt. Then, add the beaten egg yolks and mix vigorously to avoid coagulation.

Finally, incorporate the ground walnuts and mix well. Pour the caramel cream over the set white chocolate layer and let it cool again to set well before adding the final layer of dark chocolate.

Step 4: Dark chocolate cream

For the dark chocolate cream, repeat the melting process using 250 g of dark chocolate and 6 tablespoons of oil this time. Add the rum essence for an extra flavor. When the mixture is homogenized, pour it over the caramel cream and level it with a spatula.

Let the cake cool for about 2 hours, but if you are lucky enough to have an impatient family, you can take it out earlier.

Serving and suggestions

The chocolate and caramel cake is a true feast for the senses. You can cut it into squares and serve it on an elegant platter, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This combination of textures and flavors makes it perfect to be enjoyed alongside a fragrant coffee or a sweet wine.

Nutritional information

This cake is undoubtedly a "caloric bomb," but with nutritious ingredients like nuts and chocolate, it also brings benefits. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, proteins, and fibers, while dark chocolate (in moderation) is packed with antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace white chocolate with another type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use bitter chocolate or milk chocolate, but the taste and texture of the cake will be different.

2. How can I make the cake healthier?
You can replace sugar with natural sweeteners or use coconut oil instead of margarine.

3. How long does the cake last?
It is recommended to keep it in the fridge, where it can last up to a week.

Possible variations

To add a personal touch, you can experiment with different flavors, such as cinnamon or nutmeg in the caramel cream. You can also add candied fruits or coconut flakes to diversify the texture and taste.

Personal note

This chocolate and caramel cake reminds me of the evenings spent with my family, where every bite was a celebration of love and memories. I hope it becomes a beloved recipe for you too, one that you share with your loved ones!

Enjoy every step and success in the kitchen. Cooking is an art, and you are the artist!