Chocolate and cocoa cake

Chocolate and cocoa cake: a decadent delight, perfect for any occasion

Who doesn't love a chocolate cake? It's that dessert that brings joy and smiles to everyone's faces. The chocolate and cocoa cake is a simple and quick recipe that can be easily prepared at home, becoming a favorite among family and friends. The story of this dessert has its roots in ancient culinary traditions, where chocolate was considered a precious ingredient reserved for special occasions. With every bite, you will feel the richness of the flavor, and the aroma of cocoa will fill the room, bringing along pleasant memories.

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

Ingredients:

For the base:
- 10 eggs
- 10 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 60 g cocoa

For the cream:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 40 g cocoa
- 50 g chocolate (optional, but recommended for a more intense flavor)
- 200-250 g butter (at room temperature)

Step by step, how to achieve a perfect cake

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature, so it incorporates easily into the chocolate cream. It's important to use quality cocoa, as this will influence the final taste of the cake.

2. Preparing the base
- Separate the egg whites from the yolks. This step is essential, as well-beaten egg whites will give the cake a fluffy texture.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy and firm meringue.
- Incorporate the yolks one by one, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air from the mixture.
- Sift the flour and cocoa over the egg mixture and gently fold in with a top-to-bottom motion to achieve a homogeneous mixture.

3. Baking the base
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Grease a baking pan with butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- Pour the base mixture into the pan and level the surface with a spatula.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the base to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Preparing the chocolate cream
- In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and cocoa. Bring to a boil over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Add the chocolate, stirring until completely dissolved. Let the cream simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. It is important not to leave it unattended to avoid burning.
- Once the cream has cooled, add the softened butter and beat with a mixer until you achieve a fluffy and airy consistency.

5. Assembling the cake
- Cut the cooled base in half horizontally. Place the first half on a platter.
- Spread half of the chocolate cream between the two halves, smoothing it well.
- Place the other half of the base on top and cover with the remaining cream. Allow the cake to chill for at least an hour before serving. This step is essential, as the cream will set and provide a better flavor.

6. Serving the cake
The chocolate and cocoa cake pairs perfectly with a glass of brandy or a cup of black coffee. If you want to personalize it, you can add some fresh seasonal fruits or a caramel sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Useful tips:
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the base mixture.
- Substitute the butter in the cream with a lactose-free version for a suitable option for those with intolerances.
- You can add a splash of vanilla extract to the chocolate cream for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake is a good source of energy due to the sugar and healthy fats from the butter. Cocoa, on the other hand, is rich in antioxidants, helping to maintain cardiovascular health. However, moderate consumption is essential, given the sugar and calorie content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace the eggs with a vegan substitute?
Yes, you can use banana puree or a mixture of chia seeds and water as a substitute for eggs.

- How can I keep the cake fresh?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 5 days.

- What can I do with leftover cream?
You can use the leftover chocolate cream as a filling for pancakes or as a topping for ice cream.

The chocolate and cocoa cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is a cooking experience that brings joy and fulfillment. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the result will always be exceptional. So, put on your chef's attire and let yourself be carried away by the magic of chocolate!