Chocolate cream cake

No day without chocolate! This is the mantra of sweet lovers around the world, and today I suggest you prepare a delicious chocolate cream cake, a refined dessert perfect for any occasion. With a fluffy texture and a smooth cream, this recipe will surely become your favorite! Let's start this culinary adventure.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Cooling time: 3 hours
Total: 4 hours and 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the chocolate cream:
- 250 g chocolate (choose a good quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for an intense flavor)
- 200 ml liquid cream or sweet cream
- 50 g butter or margarine (at room temperature)
- 1-2 drops of orange essence (optional, but recommended for an extra flavor)

For the sponge cake:
- 7 eggs (fresh, ideal for a fluffy texture)
- 210 g sugar
- 210 g flour (sifted to avoid lumps)
- A pinch of salt
- Orange or lemon zest (for flavor)

For the syrup:
- 2 sachets of cappuccino or a weaker coffee
- Orange essence or orange zest
- Water (as needed)

A short story

The chocolate cream cake is a dessert that has evolved over time, blending tradition with innovation. Chocolate was discovered millennia ago and has since become a staple ingredient in desserts worldwide. This cake combines the sweetness of chocolate with the fresh flavor of citrus, bringing a perfect balance of tastes.

Steps for a perfect result

1. Preparing the chocolate cream:
- Grate the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a bowl. Add the soft butter over the chocolate.
- In a saucepan, bring the cream to a boil. Then, carefully pour it over the chocolate in the bowl.
- Let the mixture sit for 8-10 minutes. This time will allow the chocolate to melt completely and combine with the butter.
- Use a whisk and, after the time has passed, mix in a circular motion until the mixture becomes homogeneous. Add the essence or orange zest for a refined taste.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cream for about 30 minutes, until it thickens.

2. Preparing the sponge cake:
- In a large bowl, mix the whole eggs with the sugar and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes fluffy and triples in volume, having a light color.
- Gradually add the sifted flour, mixing with a spatula from the bottom up to avoid losing air in the mixture. This step is crucial for obtaining a fluffy sponge cake.
- Pour the batter into a mold lined with butter and flour or with baking paper. Level the surface evenly.
- Tap the mold gently on the table a few times to remove air from the batter.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 25 minutes or until golden and elastic to the touch.

3. Preparing the syrup:
- Prepare a weaker cappuccino or coffee, adding the orange essence or orange zest to enhance the flavor. You can adjust the sweetness to taste.

4. Assembling the cake:
- Once the sponge cake has cooled, cut it in half lengthwise. Place one layer in the baking pan where you baked it.
- Generously soak the first layer with the prepared syrup and spread a generous layer of chocolate cream on it.
- Place the second layer of sponge cake on top, pressing gently to secure it.
- Soak this layer as well, then refrigerate the cake for 10-15 minutes to allow the cream to set slightly.

5. Glazing:
- In a small bowl, melt 100 g of chocolate with 2-3 tablespoons of cream. Mix well until homogeneous.
- Add a teaspoon of butter or margarine for a glossy and creamy finish.
- Pour the glaze over the cake, ensuring it is evenly covered. Refrigerate the cake for a few hours before slicing.

Practical tips

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start cooking for the best results.
- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a splash of concentrated coffee to the cream.
- The cake can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious contrast.
- You can add chopped nuts or almonds to the cream for an extra texture.

Nutritional benefits

This cake contains chocolate, which is rich in antioxidants and can improve mood. Eggs provide quality protein, and butter supplies healthy fats. When consumed in moderation, it is a treat that can bring moments of joy.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use white chocolate? Yes, but the texture and taste will be different. White chocolate is sweeter and creamier.
- How can I store the cake? You can keep it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Is it suitable for special occasions? Absolutely! This cake is perfect for birthdays, parties, or any other celebration.

Serving ideas

The chocolate cream cake can be served alongside a glass of dry red wine or with a flavored coffee. You can add fresh fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a delicious contrast.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! No day without chocolate will no longer just be a motto but will become a delicious reality. Enjoy every bite!