Chocolate cake

Grandma's cocoa cake: a simple and nostalgic delicacy

If you're looking for a quick and delicious dessert, your grandma's cocoa cake is the perfect choice. This recipe, passed down through generations, is not only easy to make but also extremely satisfying. With a fluffy interior and a chocolate flavor that will delight your taste buds, this cake is sure to become one of your favorites.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 200 g sugar
- 4 eggs
- 200 g flour
- 200 ml milk
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- a pinch of baking powder
- 4 tablespoons margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- Glaze (optional): melted chocolate and powdered sugar or chocolate/fruit syrup

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by taking all the ingredients out of the fridge about 30 minutes before preparation. This will help achieve a homogeneous mixture. Make sure you have all the ingredients measured correctly.

2. Beat the yolks: In a large bowl, add the four egg yolks and the sugar (200 g). Use an electric mixer to beat them at medium speed until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy. This step is essential for obtaining an airy cake.

3. Add the wet ingredients: While continuing to mix, add the melted margarine (or butter) and the milk (200 ml). Mix well to integrate all the ingredients.

4. Preparing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour (200 g), cocoa (1 tablespoon), vanilla sugar (1 packet), and baking powder (a pinch). Gently mix with a spatula or whisk to avoid lumps.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the bowl with the yolks and gently mix with a spatula, using up-and-down motions. This will help retain the air in the mixture, essential for a fluffy cake.

6. Incorporate the egg whites: Separately, beat the four egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add them to the cake mixture, gently folding to avoid deflating the air.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Prepare a baking tray (approximately 20x30 cm) by lining it with baking paper or greasing it with margarine. Pour the mixture into the tray and level the surface. Bake the cake for 45-50 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test.

8. Cooling and decorating: After the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Glazing: You can decorate it with a glaze made of melted chocolate and powdered sugar, or with chocolate or fruit syrup. This will add an extra touch of flavor and an attractive appearance.

Practical tips:
- If you prefer a more intense cocoa flavor, you can add an extra amount of cocoa to the mixture.
- Instead of margarine, you can use butter for a richer taste.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding vanilla or almond essence to the mixture.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake contains simple and accessible ingredients, providing carbohydrates from flour, proteins from eggs, and a small portion of healthy fats from margarine or butter. Cocoa brings antioxidants, and sugar provides a quick energy boost. However, consume in moderation, as large portions can be calorie-dense.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
- Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the cake may be denser.

2. Can I replace the eggs?
- Yes, you can use a plant-based egg substitute or banana puree for a vegan option.

3. How can I make the cake less sweet?
- You can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener.

Serving:
This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of black coffee or a fragrant tea. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream next to the cake for a decadent dessert.

Personalized variant:
I recommend adding some chopped nuts or hazelnuts to the mixture for an extra texture. You can also sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking to achieve a crunchy crust.

Whether you're making it for a special occasion or simply to treat your family, grandma's cocoa cake is truly a dessert that brings joy. So put on your apron and unleash your creativity! A delicious experience awaits you in every slice.