Chocolate cake with mascarpone and strawberries

Chocolate cake with mascarpone and strawberries: a decadent delicacy

Who doesn't love a slice of chocolate cake, especially when it's combined with a creamy layer of mascarpone and a drizzle of fresh strawberries? This chocolate cake recipe with mascarpone and strawberries is perfect for any special occasion or simply to indulge yourself over the weekend. Plus, it's easy to make, and each bite will be a true explosion of flavors. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients needed:

*For the cake base:*
- 200 g very soft butter (ideally at room temperature for better incorporation)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 85 g cocoa powder (choose a good quality cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 140 g flour
- 200 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a richer flavor)
- 4 eggs (at room temperature for even incorporation into the batter)

*For the cream:*
- 500 g mascarpone (make sure it's fresh for a smooth texture)
- 85 g powdered sugar (helps sweeten the cream without altering its texture)
- a few teaspoons of strong coffee (use freshly brewed coffee for an intense taste)
- grated or chopped chocolate for decoration (optional but recommended)
- a few fresh strawberries for decoration (choose ripe and juicy strawberries)

Step by step for a perfect cake:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Make sure it is well heated to achieve an even and well-baked cake base.

2. Prepare the pan: Grease a cake pan (preferably 22-24 cm in diameter) with a little butter and, if desired, line it with parchment paper to facilitate removing the cake after baking.

3. Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and cocoa powder. Then, in another bowl, add the soft butter and sugar and mix well until you achieve a creamy mixture. This is an important step, as a well-aerated mixture will contribute to the fluffy texture of the cake.

4. Add the eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don't forget to scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure the ingredients are well integrated.

5. Combine the ingredients: Add the flour, baking powder, and cocoa mixture into the butter and egg mixture. Mix everything vigorously for 2-3 minutes until you obtain a homogeneous batter. Its texture should be soft and fluffy, similar to that of a sponge.

6. Bake the cake base: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and place it in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Check with a toothpick if it is baked: if it comes out clean, the cake base is ready. Let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then carefully remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

7. Prepare the cream: While the cake base is cooling, prepare the mascarpone cream. In a bowl, mix the mascarpone with the powdered sugar and strong coffee. Use a mixer on medium speed to achieve a smooth mixture. Don't be discouraged if the cream seems soft; it will firm up as it cools.

8. Assemble the cake: Once the cake base has completely cooled, cut it in half with a sharp knife. Place one half on a platter and spread half of the mascarpone cream in the middle, leaving a little space at the edges. Then place the other half of the cake on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining cream. Use a spatula or spoon to create a rustic look on the surface.

9. Decorate: Grate chocolate over the top of the cake and add fresh strawberries. They not only add an attractive appearance but also a touch of freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the chocolate.

10. Serve: Allow the cake to sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and make the cream firmer.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can infuse the mascarpone cream with a little vanilla extract or almond essence.
- You can substitute strawberries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to diversify the cake's flavor.
- The chocolate cake with mascarpone and strawberries pairs excellently with a glass of red wine or freshly brewed coffee, adding an unforgettable experience.

Nutritional information:
Per serving, this chocolate cake with mascarpone and strawberries has approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Butter and mascarpone provide healthy fats, while cocoa offers antioxidants. Strawberries add vitamins and minerals, making this cake a better choice than many other desserts.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of cheese instead of mascarpone?
- Yes, although mascarpone provides a creamy texture, you can use cottage cheese or ricotta, but you need to mix them well to achieve a similar consistency.

- How can I keep the cake fresh?
- Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. It can also be consumed after a few days, but it is best enjoyed within the first 2-3 days.

Now that you know how to prepare this delicious chocolate cake with mascarpone and strawberries, don't hesitate to try it at home. It is a simple yet impressive recipe that will make you want to repeat it again and again! Enjoy it with your loved ones and savor every bite!