Chocolate layer cake with apricot jam and semolina cream

Cocoa layer cake with apricot jam and semolina cream is a dessert that combines the intense flavors of cocoa with the delicate sweetness of apricot jam, offering a culinary experience worthy of the most beautiful moments. This cake is not only a delight for the taste buds but also an excellent choice for special events or a relaxing afternoon with loved ones. In the following, I will detail each step of the recipe, providing you with useful tips, ingredient information, and possible variations to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes (for each layer)
Total time: 2 hours (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 12-16

Ingredients:

*For the layers:*
- 15 tablespoons of sugar
- 15 tablespoons of water
- 15 tablespoons of oil
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda mixed with lemon juice
- 2 eggs
- Flour (approximately 700 g, as needed)

*For the cream:*
- 600 ml of milk
- 5 tablespoons of semolina
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 package of butter (82% fat)
- Apricot jam (to taste)

*For the glaze:*
- 100 g of chocolate
- 1 tablespoon of liquid cream (or milk)

Step 1: Preparing the cocoa layers

1. Dissolving the sugar: In a saucepan, combine the 15 tablespoons of sugar and 15 tablespoons of water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved. This is a crucial step, as it will contribute to the final texture of the layers. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool.

2. Adding wet ingredients: Once the syrup has cooled, add 15 tablespoons of oil and the 2 eggs. Use a whisk or mixer to thoroughly combine the mixture. It is important that all ingredients are at room temperature to ensure proper emulsification.

3. Incorporating dry ingredients: To the mixture, add the 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and the baking soda mixed with lemon juice. Mix well. Then, gradually start adding flour. Continue mixing until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough. You may not need all the flour, so add it by the handful until the dough easily pulls away from the edges.

4. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into four equal portions. This will form the four layers of the cake.

5. Baking the layers: Place a sheet of parchment paper on the bottom of a baking tray. Roll out each portion of dough onto the paper, then place the paper in the preheated tray. Bake each layer at 180°C until the edges are lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes. Repeat this process for all four layers. Ensure that the layers are evenly baked for a uniform and beautiful cake.

Step 2: Preparing the semolina cream

1. Heating the ingredients: In a saucepan, add 600 ml of milk, 4 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 packet of vanilla sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir.

2. Adding the semolina: Once the milk begins to boil, add the 5 tablespoons of semolina, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and homogeneous cream.

3. Cooling the cream: Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and add a tablespoon of butter, stirring vigorously until it melts and is fully incorporated. Let the cream cool to room temperature.

4. Incorporating the butter: After the cream has cooled, transfer it to a large bowl and begin mixing. Add the room-temperature butter, one tablespoon at a time, and continue mixing until the cream becomes fluffy and homogeneous.

Step 3: Assembling the cake

1. Layering: Place the first layer on a serving platter. Spread half of the semolina cream over it. Add the second layer, then spread a generous layer of apricot jam. Continue with the third layer, followed by the remaining cream, and finally, add the last layer.

2. Pressing the cake: To ensure an even composition, place a heavy cutting board or a flat plate on top of the cake and refrigerate for at least an hour. This step will help bind the layers together and make the cake easier to cut.

Step 4: Glazing the cake

1. Melting the chocolate: In a bowl, melt 100 g of chocolate in a double boiler, adding a tablespoon of liquid cream or milk to achieve a smoother consistency. Stir constantly to prevent the chocolate from burning.

2. Applying the glaze: Once the chocolate is completely melted, pour it evenly over the cake. Let the cake chill in the refrigerator, preferably overnight, so that the layers soften and the flavors meld perfectly.

Serving suggestions and variations

Cocoa layer cake with apricot jam and semolina cream can be served plain or with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added creaminess. You can also add some fresh fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, to bring a touch of freshness. If you want to experiment, try replacing the apricot jam with raspberry or plum jam, and you can enhance the semolina cream with rum or cinnamon for an even more complex flavor.

Nutritional information

This cake is a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy due to the sugar and flour. Semolina, on the other hand, adds fiber and protein, while apricot jam contributes essential vitamins such as vitamins A and C. However, considering the sugar and fat content from the butter, it is recommended to consume it in moderation, but without giving up the pleasure of enjoying a delicious dessert.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of jam?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of jam, such as raspberry, peach, or plum.

2. What can I do to make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the layers and cream. Also, choose a jam with a lower sugar content.

3. How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a week. It actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to develop.

This recipe for cocoa layer cake with apricot jam and semolina cream is not just a simple dessert, but a wonderful way to bring joy to the lives of your loved ones. Try it, and you'll discover how easy it is to create an extraordinary dessert full of flavors and textures!