Chocolate cake

Soft and Delicious Chocolate Cake - Easy and Quick Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Introduction

I present to you a chocolate cake recipe that will win you over from the very first slice! This recipe comes from a rich culinary tradition and is perfect for any occasion, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want to indulge in a delicious dessert. It's a simple recipe but with a spectacular result that will bring a smile to your face and delight your loved ones. With a fluffy texture and a rich chocolate glaze, this cake will surely become a favorite in your family!

Ingredients

For the cake base:
- 250 grams dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
- 150 grams butter
- 5 eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 125 grams sugar
- Vanilla essence (2-3 tablespoons, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A splash of vinegar (to activate the baking powder)
- 150 grams shredded coconut or crushed almonds (optional, for added texture)

For the glaze:
- 250 grams dark chocolate
- 250 ml liquid cream
- Vanilla essence (to taste)

Preparation Steps

1. Preheating the oven
Start by preheating the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. This constant temperature is essential for even baking of the cake.

2. Melting chocolate and butter
Break the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a saucepan along with the butter. Set the saucepan over low heat and stir constantly until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and form a smooth mixture. Once melted, let the mixture cool slightly, but not completely.

3. Preparing the eggs
Meanwhile, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites in a large bowl with half of the sugar until you achieve a firm foam. Then, in another bowl, whisk the yolks with the remaining sugar and vanilla essence until the mixture becomes light in color and creamy.

4. Combining the ingredients
Add the melted chocolate (which has cooled slightly) to the yolk mixture and mix well. Then, gently fold in the beaten egg whites using a spatula to maintain the airiness of the egg whites. Finally, add the baking powder activated with vinegar and, optionally, the shredded coconut or crushed almonds, mixing gently.

5. Baking the cake
Grease a cake pan with butter and, if desired, sprinkle some coconut or almonds on the bottom for an appealing look. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until the cake is well risen and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Preparing the glaze
In the last few minutes of baking, prepare the glaze. Melt the 250 grams of dark chocolate along with the liquid cream in a bowl, stirring well until it becomes a smooth mixture. Add vanilla essence to taste and mix again.

7. Assembling the cake
Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the chocolate glaze over it, allowing it to drip down the sides of the cake for an elegant look. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing the cake.

Serving Suggestions

The chocolate cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, bringing a pleasant contrast between warm and cold. You can also add fresh fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a touch of freshness. A cup of coffee or flavored tea will perfectly complement this decadent dessert.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This chocolate cake recipe contains approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, may improve heart health, and contributes to well-being due to its positive effect on mood. When consumed in moderation, this cake can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the cake will be sweeter and have a different flavor.

- How can I make the cake gluten-free?
You can replace the flour with gluten-free flour; however, the original recipe does not contain flour.

- How can I keep the cake fresh?
Keep the cake covered in the fridge to maintain its moisture and freshness. It can also be consumed after a few days, but it is recommended to enjoy it within the first 2-3 days for the best experience.

Final Notes

I hope this chocolate cake recipe brings you joy and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Cooking is an art, and every cake you prepare is an opportunity to add a personal touch and create beautiful memories. Don't forget to have fun while cooking and enjoy every bite of this sweet masterpiece! Enjoy your meal!