Chocolate and strawberry cake

Chocolate Cake with Strawberries and Chocolate Leaves: A Delicacy for the Soul

If you're looking for a quick, simple, and delicious dessert recipe, this chocolate cake with strawberries is the perfect choice! The rich combination of chocolate and fresh strawberries makes this recipe an ideal choice for any occasion, whether it's an anniversary, a celebration, or simply a family weekend evening. Plus, the chocolate leaves add a touch of elegance and an artistic look, turning the dessert into a true culinary masterpiece.

Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the Base:
- 3 large eggs
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 6 tablespoons of milk
- 1 tablespoon of cocoa
- Rum essence (optional)

For the Cream:
- 100 ml liquid cream
- 1 milk chocolate bar (approximately 100g)
- 2 tablespoons of Finetti or Nutella
- 300 g fresh strawberries

For the Glaze:
- 150 g dark chocolate
- 100 ml liquid cream

For the Leaves:
- Green leaves (preferably from peppers or other edible plants)
- Melted chocolate

Preparation of the Chocolate Leaves

1. Melting the Chocolate: Start by melting the chocolate in a bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave, being careful not to burn it. Stir occasionally until it becomes completely liquid.

2. Preparing the Leaves: Wash the leaves thoroughly and dry them with a towel. Using a brush, apply an even layer of chocolate on the veined side of the leaf (the back side). This layer will create a special effect.

3. Cooling: Place the leaves on a tray covered with parchment paper and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens. It is recommended to prepare them the night before so that everything is ready for assembling the cake.

Preparation of the Base

1. Separating the Eggs: In a bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a foam and double in volume. This step will ensure a fluffy base.

2. Adding the Sugar: Continue beating the egg whites and gradually add the sugar until the mixture becomes glossy and firm.

3. Incorporating the Ingredients: Add the yolks, oil, milk, and rum essence. Gently mix to combine the ingredients.

4. Flour and Cocoa: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and cocoa is essential to avoid lumps. Gradually add them to the mixture and gently mix so as not to deflate the egg whites.

5. Baking: Pour the mixture into a round pan greased with oil and lined with flour. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20-30 minutes or until the base is firm to the touch.

6. Cooling: Allow the base to cool completely, then cut it into two equal parts.

Preparation of the Cream

1. Melting the Chocolate: In a saucepan, melt the chocolate with Finetti over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

2. Whipping the Cream: Whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm and fluffy. It is important not to overwhip it, or it will turn into butter.

3. Mixing the Ingredients: Once the chocolate has cooled slightly, add it to the whipped cream and gently mix until well combined.

4. Adding the Strawberries: Wash and cut the strawberries into small cubes. Fold them into the chocolate and cream mixture, being careful not to crush them.

Assembling the Cake

1. Soaking the Base: Use a simple syrup (water with boiled sugar flavored with rum essence) to moisten the chocolate base. This step will add moisture and flavor.

2. Layering the Cream: Place a generous layer of cream on the first base, then add the second base on top, ensuring that it is also soaked.

3. Glazing: Melt the dark chocolate together with the liquid cream for the glaze, mixing well. Let it cool slightly and pour it over the cake. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Decoration

1. Chocolate Leaves: Once the chocolate has hardened, carefully remove the leaves and elegantly place them on the cake. They will add a natural and sophisticated look.

2. Fresh Strawberries: You can also decorate the cake with a few fresh strawberries, cut in half or whole, for a contrast of colors and textures.

Suggestions and Tips

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of chocolate (e.g., white chocolate or orange-flavored chocolate) to adapt the cake to your tastes.
- Ice Cream: This delicious cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a strawberry sauce.
- Storing the Cake: To keep the cake fresh, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It is delicious the next day too!

Nutritional Benefits

This chocolate and strawberry cake is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants from the chocolate and vitamins from the strawberries. Dark chocolate is known for its heart health benefits, while strawberries are rich in vitamin C and fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use sugar-free chocolate? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using sugar-free chocolate to reduce the calorie content.
- What beverages pair perfectly with this cake? A glass of sweet wine or a warm fruit tea are excellent alongside this dessert.
- How can I make this cake gluten-free? Replace the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

In conclusion, the chocolate cake with strawberries and chocolate leaves is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will delight your senses. I wish you much success in preparing it and enjoy every delicious slice!