Chocolate cake with whipped cream and strawberries

Chocolate Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries - A Delicacy for Holidays

Who doesn’t love a decadent chocolate cake topped with fluffy whipped cream and decorated with fresh strawberries? This special cake is dedicated to all those celebrating Saint Constantine and Saint Helena, but it can be enjoyed on any occasion. It’s perfect for bringing smiles to the faces of loved ones or celebrating special moments in our lives. I invite you to join me on this culinary adventure, where every step is a joy!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients

For the base:
- 3 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 100 ml warm milk
- 100 ml oil
- 180 g flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 1 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt

For the cream:
- 350 ml liquid cream
- 5 full tablespoons of honey

For the syrup:
- 100 ml water
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons rum essence

For decoration:
- 1 milk chocolate (approximately 100 g)
- Fresh strawberries (cut in half)
- A small round bowl (for forming the chocolate basket)

Preparing the Whipped Cream

1. Start by whipping the liquid cream with a mixer. Make sure the bowl and mixer blades are cold to achieve perfectly whipped cream.
2. Once the cream starts to thicken, gradually add the honey and continue mixing on low speed to prevent it from curdling.
3. Once the cream is firm, place it in the refrigerator to chill and firm up during the cake assembly.

Creating the Chocolate Basket

1. Fill a small round bowl with water and place it in the freezer until the water freezes completely.
2. Break the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a plastic bag. Place the bag in a bowl of warm water (this technique helps the chocolate melt evenly).
3. Remove the bowl of water from the freezer and turn it upside down on a wooden board.
4. Cut a corner of the chocolate bag and quickly decorate the ice shape with melted chocolate, ensuring to apply multiple layers to create a solid basket.
5. Place the chocolate basket in the freezer to harden well. Give it time to set; if it's warm in the room, it may melt quickly.

Preparing the Base

1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar for 2-3 minutes until frothy.
2. Gradually add the warm milk and oil, continuing to mix.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour with cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Incorporate the flour mixture into the egg mixture, mixing on low speed until combined.
4. Line a round cake pan (26 cm diameter) with parchment paper and divide the mixture into two equal parts, or you can opt for three thinner layers if you prefer a multi-layered cake.
5. Pour the first half of the mixture into the pan and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10 minutes. Test with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the base is ready. Let it cool on a cooling rack.
6. Repeat the process with the second half of the mixture.

Assembling the Cake

1. Place the first layer of the base on a serving platter and soak it with a syrup made from water, sugar, and rum essence.
2. Add a generous layer of whipped cream, then take the second layer and cut it into flower shapes or other desired shapes.
3. Place the second layer on top, being careful not to press too hard. In the gaps of the cut shapes, add whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
4. Decorate the cake with melted chocolate and place the cut-out pieces of the base on top for an elegant look.
5. Remove the chocolate basket from the freezer, place it in the center of the cake, and fill it with fresh strawberries.

Serving and Suggestions

Your cake is now ready to be enjoyed! It’s delicious alongside a cup of fragrant tea or a glass of champagne. An interesting variation would be to serve the cake warm, topped with vanilla ice cream, to create a contrast of textures and temperatures.

Nutrition and Benefits

Each slice of cake contains approximately 350 calories, and the main ingredients provide nutritional benefits. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while chocolate has positive effects on well-being. It’s a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of cream?
Yes, you can use plant-based cream for a vegan option.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the base and the honey in the cream.

3. Can the cake be frozen?
It is recommended to avoid freezing the cake with whipped cream, but the base can be frozen for a few weeks.

4. Can I add other fruits?
Certainly! You can customize your cake with seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries.

Now it’s time to get cooking! Whether it’s for a special celebration or just a weekend evening, this chocolate cake with whipped cream and strawberries will surely be a hit. Enjoy!