Chocolate cream cake, meringue, and strawberries

Chocolate Cream, Meringue, and Strawberry Cake – An Unforgettable Delight

When it comes to desserts, few can rival a fine, layered cake that combines the decadent flavors of chocolate with the natural sweetness of strawberries. This chocolate cream, meringue, and strawberry cake is a true culinary masterpiece, perfect for any special occasion or simply to celebrate an ordinary day. Not only will it impress visually, but each slice will offer an explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Total Time: 3 hours
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the cake base:
- 5 eggs
- 10 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons cocoa

For the chocolate ganache:
- 400 ml cream
- 200 g milk chocolate
- 1 essence of rum

For the meringue:
- 3 egg whites
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

For the syrup:
- 200 ml water
- 200 g sugar
- 1 essence of rum

For the strawberry jelly:
- 300 g strawberries
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 10 g gelatin

For decoration:
- 250 ml cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Cake Base
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy, then gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve a glossy, dense foam that does not run. It is essential to have a quality mixer to achieve the perfect texture.

Add the egg yolks, one at a time, gently mixing. In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, and baking powder. Fold the dry mixture into the egg mixture using a spatula, being careful not to lose the air from the egg whites. Pour the mixture into a 26 cm baking pan lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake base cool completely.

2. Chocolate Ganache
Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat the cream without boiling it. When hot, add the finely chopped chocolate and stir until completely melted. This combination will create a fine ganache, perfect for the cake cream. Let it cool slightly, then refrigerate for a few hours until it thickens.

3. Meringue
For the meringue, beat the egg whites together with the lemon juice until frothy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve a stiff, glossy foam. This will be the airy base of the cake. Preheat the oven to a minimum temperature (about 100°C) and pour the meringue onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 1 hour, leaving the oven door slightly ajar to avoid moisture. The meringue should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

4. Syrup
To prepare the syrup, boil the water with the sugar until it thickens slightly. Add the rum essence for extra flavor. Let it cool.

5. Strawberry Jelly
For the strawberry jelly, crush the strawberries with the sugar and let them sit for 30 minutes. Gently heat the mixture without boiling and add the gelatin, stirring well. Let it cool, but do not let it set completely.

6. Assembly
Once all components are ready, it's time to assemble the cake. Cut the cocoa base in half, soaking each half with the rum syrup. Place the first half on a serving platter and spread half of the ganache. Place the meringue on top, followed by the remaining ganache. Cover with the second half of the cocoa base. Carefully pour the strawberry jelly on top, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

7. Decoration
Whip the cream with the powdered sugar and lemon juice, then use it to decorate the cake. You can opt for different designs or simply cover the cake with an even layer.

Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs perfectly with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of aromatic coffee. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or fresh cream alongside a slice of cake will elevate the culinary experience to the next level.

Variations
For a different note, try replacing the strawberries with other fruits, such as raspberries or peaches. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, to achieve a unique flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
This cake is not only delicious but also a source of energy due to the eggs and chocolate, which contain antioxidants. The strawberries add a note of freshness and essential vitamins, making it a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use white chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
- Yes, white chocolate will provide a sweeter taste and a beautiful color.

2. How can I store the cake?
- This cake stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap.

3. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
- No, this recipe contains eggs and dairy products. For a vegan version, look for egg alternatives and use vegan cream.

4. Can I freeze the cake?
- Yes, but it is recommended to freeze the cocoa base separately from the creams and meringue to avoid texture damage.

In conclusion, this chocolate cream, meringue, and strawberry cake is not only a delicious choice but also an opportunity to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, it is a recipe that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!