Dessert - Chocolate cake with coconut cream by Iris C. - Recipia
Chocolate Cake with Coconut Cream

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I will share with you the recipe for a chocolate cake with coconut cream, a dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the fine and exotic aroma of coconut. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings, and promises to impress both in appearance and with its divine taste.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the cake:
- 8 eggs (preferably free-range for a richer color)
- 70 g powdered sugar
- 5 tablespoons oil
- 60 g dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 8 heaping tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the cream:
- 2 eggs
- 100 g sugar
- 200 ml coconut milk
- 80 g shredded coconut
- 200 ml whipped cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 10 g gelatin

For the syrup:
- 100 ml water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

For decoration:
- 50 g shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder

Step by Step

1. Preparing the cake
- Start by carefully separating the egg whites from the yolks. It's essential that no yolk remains in the whites, or they won't whip properly.
- In a large bowl, whisk the yolks with the powdered sugar until the mixture doubles in volume and becomes frothy. Add the oil and mix well.
- In another bowl, melt the dark chocolate with the sour cream over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring constantly. Once melted, add this mixture to the yolks along with the cocoa powder. Mix well until combined.
- Incorporate the baking powder and one tablespoon of flour into the chocolate mixture.
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the 8 tablespoons of sugar until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. It's important to be patient and not rush this step, as well-whipped whites will make the cake fluffy.
- Add two tablespoons of the meringue to the yolk mixture and gently fold with a spatula using a top-to-bottom motion. This will help aerate the mixture.
- Gradually add the flour, alternating with the meringue, mixing carefully. This step is crucial to maintain air in the cake, ensuring it will be light and fluffy.
- Pour the batter into a 30 cm round cake pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.

2. Preparing the cream
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar over a double boiler, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. This step will create a base for the egg cream.
- Once the cream has thickened, add the coconut milk and mix well. It’s essential to keep stirring to avoid lumps.
- Hydrate the gelatin in 3 tablespoons of cold water, then dissolve it over a double boiler or in the microwave and incorporate it into the warm cream. Mix well to ensure the gelatin is evenly distributed.
- Allow the cream to cool slightly, then fold in the shredded coconut and whipped cream (whipped with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until firm). Gently mix to maintain the aeration.

3. Preparing the syrup
- In a small saucepan, boil the water with the sugar, stirring until completely dissolved. Allow the syrup to cool, then add the almond extract.

4. Assembling the cake
- Once the cake has completely cooled, cut it into three equal layers.
- Soak each layer with the prepared syrup, then spread some cream over the first layer, followed by another layer, continuing the same process until the assembly is complete (layer, cream, layer).
- Once finished, refrigerate the cake for one hour to allow the cream to set.

5. Decorating the cake
- Remove the cake from the fridge and spread the remaining cream over the top and sides.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut and cocoa powder on top for an elegant look. You can also add edible flowers for a pop of color and refinement.

Practical Tips
- Ingredient selection: Use free-range eggs if available; they will add a more vibrant color to the cream. Also, choose high-quality chocolate for a rich flavor.
- Gelatin: Ensure the gelatin is well-hydrated before adding it to the cream to avoid lumps.
- Gluten-free option: You can replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative to make the cake accessible to those with dietary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
- Yes, but the taste will be sweeter and less intense. Adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.

2. How can I tell if the cake is baked?
- Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it has batter on it, leave it for a few more minutes.

3. What other flavors can I add?
- You can experiment with vanilla or orange extracts to give the cake an extra flavor boost.

Pairing with Other Recipes
This chocolate cake with coconut cream pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic coffee or a fruity herbal tea. Additionally, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream would complement this dessert beautifully.

In conclusion, this chocolate cake with coconut cream is not just a dessert but a culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, it is guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Happy baking!

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Dessert - Chocolate cake with coconut cream by Iris C. - Recipia

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