Chocolate cake

Chocolate cake, like a sweet hug, is the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers. This cake recipe is simple yet impressive, ideal for special occasions or just to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Let's discover together how to prepare this delight, step by step!

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

Necessary ingredients:

For the base:
- 200 g margarine (you can also use butter for a richer taste)
- 100 g dark chocolate (choose a quality chocolate for an intense flavor)
- 150 g sugar
- 70 g cocoa (good quality cocoa will provide a deeper aroma)
- 5 eggs (at room temperature for better incorporation)
- 250 g flour
- 1 baking powder
- rum essence (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)

For the cream:
- 1 packet of chocolate pudding
- 400 ml milk (or a plant-based alternative, if preferred)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 50 g butter (for a creamy texture)

For decoration:
- 1/2 bar of chocolate
- 100 ml cream (for a finer glaze)
- 1 teaspoon of butter (to help the chocolate melt evenly)
- apricots (fresh or canned, as preferred)
- sour cherries (fresh or canned, for a taste contrast)

A bit of history:
Chocolate cake is a dessert that has delighted the taste buds of people around the world for generations. The origins of chocolate lie in Central America, where it was consumed as a drink. Over time, chocolate evolved and became an essential ingredient in cakes and desserts, bringing joy and comfort.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the base:
Start by melting the margarine together with the dark chocolate in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to avoid burning. When the mixture is smooth, add the cocoa and mix well. Let it cool slightly, set aside.

2. Whipping the egg whites:
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy and firm foam. This is the secret to an airy base!

3. Incorporating the yolks:
Add the yolks one at a time, mixing well after each. Here it’s important to be patient and ensure each yolk is fully incorporated.

4. Adding the dry ingredients:
Sift the flour together with the baking powder and add them to the chocolate mixture. Add the rum essence for a richer taste. Gently fold with a spatula so as not to lose the air in the mixture.

5. Baking the base:
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan (preferably lined with parchment paper) and level the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat) for about 25-30 minutes. Check with a toothpick if it’s done – it should come out clean.

6. Cooling the base:
After the base has baked, let it cool completely in the pan, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

7. Preparing the cream:
In another bowl, prepare the pudding according to the instructions on the packet, but with only 400 ml of milk. Add the 4 tablespoons of sugar and the butter to achieve a creamy texture. Mix well to avoid lumps and let the cream cool.

8. Assembling the cake:
Once the base has cooled, cut it into two equal parts. Soak the first layer with a syrup made from water and sugar (optionally, you can add rum essence or fruit juice for extra flavor). Spread the cream evenly on the first layer, then cover with the second layer.

9. Glazing:
Melt the chocolate with the cream and butter in a bain-marie or microwave, stirring until it becomes a smooth mixture. Pour the glaze over the cake, letting it drip slightly over the edges for a pleasant aesthetic effect.

10. Decorating:
Decorate with apricots and sour cherries, sliced or whole, and with grated chocolate for a professional look.

Serving suggestions:
This chocolate cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can serve it alongside a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea to balance the sweetness of the dessert.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I substitute margarine with butter?
Yes, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture, but margarine is a lighter alternative.

- How can I keep the cake fresh?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature, or in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

- Can I use other fruits for decoration?
Certainly! You can use berries, bananas, or even orange slices to add a different touch.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Protein: 5 g

This chocolate cake is not just a comforting dessert but also an opportunity to experiment in the kitchen. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself and your loved ones, this recipe is sure to bring joy and smiles. Happy cooking!