Chocolate layer cake

Chocolate Layer Cake: A Delight for the Holidays

The chocolate layer cake is that recipe that turns any occasion into an unforgettable moment. With a soft base, decadent cream, and a shiny glaze, this cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a work of art that will impress your guests. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe, perfect for both holidays and a simple family Sunday. So, let’s get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 80 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients

For the base:
- 12 eggs
- 500 g sugar
- Grated zest of one lemon or orange
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- Flour (approximately 400 g, as needed)
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 essence of rum (optional)

For the cream:
- 5-6 eggs
- 500 ml milk
- 40 g butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 5-6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 essence of rum

For decoration:
- Whipped cream
- Grated chocolate
- Chocolate glaze

Preparing the bases

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowls are clean, as any trace of fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping well.

2. Whipping the egg whites: Beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed until they form a firm foam. You can add a pinch of salt to stabilize the foam.

3. Adding the yolks: While continuing to beat, gradually add the yolks so they integrate well. Mix until the composition becomes homogeneous and fluffy.

4. Sugar: Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until it completely dissolves and a creamy mixture forms.

5. Dry ingredients: Incorporate the baking powder, oil, rum essence, grated lemon or orange zest, and finally, the flour and cocoa. Mix with a spatula, using gentle movements to avoid losing the air in the mixture.

6. Baking: Pour the mixture into the baking pans (one large and one smaller) and bake at a medium temperature (approximately 180°C) for 40 minutes. Check with a toothpick if they are baked. If the toothpick comes out clean, the bases are ready.

7. Cooling: Once baked, let the bases cool in the oven with the door ajar for a few minutes, then remove them and let them cool completely on a rack.

Preparing the cream

1. Heating the milk: Place the milk over a double boiler to warm it. Make sure it doesn’t boil but heats evenly.

2. Mixing the yolks: In a bowl, mix the yolks with the sugar until they become a light-colored foam. This is the base of your cream.

3. Adding the milk: When the milk is warm, gradually add the yolk foam, stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the cream begins to thicken.

4. Whipped egg whites: Separately, beat the egg whites until they form a firm foam. Add them to the yolk cream, gently mixing to maintain the air.

5. Finalizing the cream: Add the butter, cocoa, and flour (dissolved in a little milk) to the thickened cream. Mix well and add the rum essence for extra flavor. Let the cream cool.

Assembling the cake

1. Cutting the bases: Once the bases have completely cooled, cut them evenly into two equal parts. This way, you will obtain four layers of base.

2. Filling: Place one layer of base on a platter and pour a layer of cream. Continue alternating the bases with the cream, making sure to keep the largest base at the bottom and the smallest on top.

3. Cooling: After the cake is assembled, let it chill in the fridge for a few hours so the flavors blend perfectly.

Glazing and decorating

1. Preparing the glaze: You can use a chocolate glaze made from melted dark chocolate with a little butter or cream. Cover the cake with the chocolate glaze, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

2. Decorations: Once the glaze has set, decorate the cake with whipped cream and grated chocolate. You can also add berries or nuts for a unique look and taste.

Suggestions and variations

- If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream.
- You can add coffee flavor or vanilla essence to give the cream a different taste.
- The cake can be served with a scoop of ice cream or a fruit sauce, adding a pleasant contrast to the rich chocolate.

Nutritional benefits

The chocolate cake, while delicious, is a good source of carbohydrates and fats. Eggs are rich in protein and vitamins, while cocoa contains antioxidants that can be beneficial for health. Consumed in moderation, this cake can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why don’t the bases rise?
- Make sure you have whipped the egg whites well enough and that you used fresh ingredients. Also, do not open the oven during baking, as temperature fluctuations can affect volume.

2. Can I make the cake gluten-free?
- Yes, you can replace the flour with a gluten-free flour, but the taste and texture may vary.

3. How can I store the cake?
- The cake can be stored in the fridge, covered, for 3-4 days. Before serving, you can let the cake come to room temperature to enhance its flavor.

This chocolate layer cake is not just a recipe but a cooking experience that combines a love for sweets with the joy of sharing special moments. Each slice is a tale of flavor, and with each bite, you will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!