Chocolate spiral

Chocolate Spiral - a refined and seductive dessert

Discover the magic of a delicate dessert, full of flavor and texture, with an impressive appearance that will transform any meal into an unforgettable moment. This chocolate spiral recipe is perfect for special occasions or simply to indulge your taste buds. With simple ingredients but an elegant presentation, this cake is sure to become your favorite!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

A brief story about the chocolate spiral

Chocolate desserts have a fascinating history, being cherished for centuries around the world. The chocolate spiral, this combination of delicate layers and fine cream, is a modern reinterpretation of classic rolled cakes. Whether it’s for a birthday party or a family meal, this attractive dessert is sure to impress everyone who tastes it.

Ingredients

*For the sponge:*
- 6 eggs
- 200 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 100 g flour
- 100 g cornstarch
- 1 packet baking powder

*For the ganache cream:*
- 200 g dark chocolate (minimum 60% cocoa)
- 400 ml liquid cream

*For the glaze:*
- 100 g chocolate
- 50 g butter
- 50 ml liquid cream

Step by step: Preparing the sponges

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Ensure no traces of yolk remain in the whites, as this will affect their ability to whip.

2. Whipping the egg whites: In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy sponge.

3. Adding the sugar: Continue mixing, gradually adding the sugar and vanilla sugar. Keep mixing until the mixture becomes glossy and firm.

4. Incorporating the yolks: Add the yolks one at a time, and gently fold with a spatula to avoid losing the incorporated air.

5. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder together and gradually fold them into the egg mixture, mixing gently to achieve a smooth batter.

6. Baking the sponges: Pour the batter into a large baking tray lined with parchment paper. If you don’t have a large tray, you can bake in two batches. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20 minutes, until the sponge is lightly browned and passes the toothpick test.

7. Cooling and rolling the sponges: Once baked, turn the sponges onto a damp towel and carefully roll them up. Let them rest for a few minutes, then gently unroll.

Preparing the ganache cream

1. Melting the chocolate: In a saucepan, melt the dark chocolate together with 400 ml of liquid cream. Bring the mixture close to a boil without letting the cream boil.

2. Cooling the cream: Once melted, let the cream cool to room temperature for about an hour.

3. Whipping the cream: After it has cooled, whip the cream until it becomes fluffy and airy. This chocolate cream will add a delicious taste to your sponges.

Preparing the glaze

1. Melting the glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate, butter, and liquid cream. Mix well until you achieve a smooth consistency.

2. Cooling the glaze: Allow the glaze to cool slightly so that it becomes easy to spread over the cake.

Assembling the spiral

1. Filling the sponges: Spread a generous layer of cream on each of the unrolled sponges. Make sure to reserve a few tablespoons of cream for the final decoration.

2. Forming the spiral: Carefully twist the filled sponges to form a spiral. Place the first strip of sponge on a platter, followed by the others, so as to form a spiral-shaped cake.

3. Finishing the cake: Cover the cake with the remaining cream, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Then, pour the cooled glaze on top and smooth it out.

4. Decorating: Coat the sides of the cake with ground nuts and decorate with whipped cream and edible flowers for an elegant look.

Useful tips

- Choosing the chocolate: Opt for high-cocoa chocolate to achieve an intense flavor. Quality chocolate will definitely make a difference.
- Soaking the sponges: A syrup made from water and caramelized sugar will add moisture and extra flavor to your sponges. You can also experiment with flavors like vanilla or rum essence.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or hazelnuts to the cream for a crunchy texture or experiment with different chocolate flavors (white or milk chocolate).
- Serving: Serve the chocolate spiral with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of hot chocolate for a complete indulgence.

Nutritional benefits

This chocolate spiral, although a dessert, contains nutritious ingredients. Eggs provide essential proteins, and dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, contributing to heart health. Consume in moderation and enjoy every slice!

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
- Yes, you can use white chocolate, but keep in mind that the taste will be sweeter and creamier.

2. How can I store the cake for longer?
- Keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge. It is recommended to consume it within a few days to enjoy its freshness.

3. What drinks pair well with this dessert?
- A black coffee or an espresso will contrast pleasantly with the sweetness of the cake, while a sweet red wine can add a touch of elegance.

Savor every moment spent in the kitchen and don't forget to enjoy the final result! The chocolate spiral will surely become a favorite recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!