Chocolate cake with buttercream

Chocolate Cake with Cocoa Base and Butter Cream

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

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today I present you a tempting recipe that will bring joy both in the kitchen and at the festive table. We are talking about a chocolate cake, delicate and fluffy, covered with a fine and aromatic butter cream. It is a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it is a party, a birthday, or simply a quiet evening at home.

The history of this dessert takes us back in time when sweets were considered a symbol of hospitality and joy. Chocolate cakes gained popularity, appreciated for their intense flavor and soft texture. This recipe is simple, but the result is extraordinary, and each bite will transport you to a world of flavors and nostalgia.

Necessary ingredients:

For the cocoa base:
- 300 g flour
- 100 g lard
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 1 egg
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon ammonia

For the cognac or rum flavored base:
- 3 eggs
- 12 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 6 tablespoons water
- 12 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon ammonia
- 2-3 tablespoons cognac or rum

For the cream:
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 200 g powdered sugar

Step by step to a perfect result:

1. Preparing the bases:
- Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is essential for achieving a perfectly baked base.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, cocoa, and lard. Use a mixer or spatula to mix the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous composition.
- Add the egg and ammonia dissolved in milk. Mix well until all ingredients are integrated. The dough should have a slightly sticky consistency.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Line the bottom of a baking tray with parchment paper and spread the first part of the dough. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the base is well baked and passes the toothpick test. Repeat with the second part of the dough.

2. Preparing the cognac or rum base:
- In another bowl, beat the eggs with the powdered sugar until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color.
- Add the water and ammonia, mixing constantly. Finally, gradually incorporate the flour, mixing carefully to avoid lumps.
- Add the cognac or rum and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the tray and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure the base is well baked by using the toothpick test.

3. Preparing the cream:
- In a bowl, beat the soft butter with the powdered sugar until you obtain a fluffy and homogeneous cream. You can add a drop of vanilla essence for extra flavor.
- If desired, you can also add a few drops of cognac to enhance the flavor.

4. Assembling the cake:
- After the bases have cooled completely, place the first cocoa base on a platter and spread a portion of the cream evenly on top.
- Place the cognac or rum base over the butter cream, then cover it with the remaining cream.
- Add the last cocoa base on top and decorate the cake as desired (for example, with cocoa, grated chocolate, or chopped nuts).

5. Serving and storing:
- Let the cake rest in the refrigerator for a few hours or, ideally, overnight. This will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.
- Cut the cake into squares and serve it alongside a warm tea or aromatic coffee. It is a combination that will delight you!

Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a uniform texture.
- You can experiment with different liqueur flavors, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake, although delicious, should be consumed in moderation. The flour and sugar provide energy, while the butter adds healthy fats. Cocoa contains antioxidants, which may have health benefits.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace lard with butter? Yes, but the cake will have a slightly different texture.
2. Can I use another type of alcohol? Yes, you can experiment with rum, whiskey, or other flavored liqueurs.
3. How can I make the cake less caloric? You can reduce the sugar and use healthier alternatives to butter.

This chocolate cake with cocoa base and butter cream is not just a simple dessert but also a culinary experience that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, enjoy every step of the preparation and savor each bite!