Chocolate cake with berries

Chocolate and Berry Cake: A Delight for the Soul

When it comes to desserts, nothing is more enchanting than a chocolate and berry cake. This recipe will not only bring a smile to your loved ones' faces but will also transform any ordinary day into a celebration. Preparing this delicious dessert is a satisfying activity, and the final result is simply irresistible. I invite you to discover the steps to create this culinary masterpiece!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 2 hours (including cooling time)
Servings: 12

Ingredients:

*Cake Base:*
- 4 eggs
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 tablespoons of oil
- 6 tablespoons of milk
- 1 packet of baking powder
- A pinch of salt

*Fruit Jelly:*
- 200 g of berries (raspberries and strawberries, preferably frozen)
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch

*Chocolate Cream:*
- 200 ml of unsweetened liquid cream (I recommend Pilos from Lidl)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 125 g of white chocolate
- 100 g of dark chocolate

*Other:*
- 4-5 tablespoons of raspberry syrup
- 150 ml of sweetened liquid cream

The History of Chocolate and Berry Cake:
This recipe is inspired by pastry traditions, where chocolate and fruit desserts have always been appreciated for their perfect combination of flavors. The rich chocolate paired with the freshness of berries is a classic choice, bringing a perfect balance between sweet and tart. Dedicated to loved ones, this cake becomes a symbol of love and care.

Making the Cream:
1. Start by preparing the cream, as it needs to chill. In a saucepan, combine the liquid cream with the sugar and heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to boil.
2. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir well until the chocolate is completely melted.
3. Transfer the cream to the refrigerator for 2-3 hours or, if you're in a hurry, 30 minutes in the freezer.

Helpful Tips: Use quality chocolate for a smooth and flavorful cream.

Making the Cake Base:
1. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until a glossy meringue forms.
3. Incorporate the egg yolks, milk, and oil, mixing well after each addition.
4. Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder over the wet mixture and gently fold with a spatula until combined.

Baking the Cake Base:
1. Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius and line a 22/30 cm baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Pour the batter into the tray and level the surface. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the cake is firm to the touch.
3. Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting.

Making the Fruit Jelly:
1. In a blender, blend the frozen berries with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth.
2. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan, add the sugar, and heat over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water, then add it to the saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly. Allow to cool.

Assembling the Cake:
1. Cut the cake into two equal layers.
2. On the first layer, spread the fruit jelly and let it absorb for 20 minutes.
3. Add the chocolate cream over the jelly, leveling the surface.
4. Place the second layer of cake on top and drizzle with raspberry syrup.
5. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour.

Glazing and Decorating:
1. Remove the cake from the refrigerator and cut it into equal squares.
2. Heat the reserved chocolate cream in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, then drizzle it over each cake square, allowing it to flow over the edges.
3. Whip the sweetened liquid cream to your desired consistency, then pipe a dollop on each piece of cake.
4. Using the reserved jelly, decorate each cream dollop with a few drops.

Storage and Serving:
Let the cake chill in the refrigerator until the next day to allow the flavors to meld perfectly. This chocolate and berry cake can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of sparkling wine for a truly memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Yes, any flavorful berries are suitable. You can experiment with blueberries or blackberries, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store the cake? The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days.
- Can I use milk chocolate instead of white chocolate? Absolutely! Milk chocolate offers a different but equally delicious flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:
This cake contains fruits rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, while chocolate has mood-boosting effects. Although it's a treat, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

In conclusion, the chocolate and berry cake is a true delight for the taste buds and a perfect way to treat your friends and family. So, let’s put on our aprons and unleash our creativity in the kitchen! This recipe will not only impress but will surely become a favorite for everyone!