Christmas tree cake

Christmas Tree Cake with Vanilla Cream and Fruits – A Holiday Delight

Who doesn’t remember the magic of winter holidays, when the aroma of freshly baked pastries fills the air and every corner of the house becomes an oasis of joy? Today, I invite you to discover a special recipe: the Christmas Tree Cake, a true culinary gem, perfect for adding a touch of cheer and flavor to festive meals. This cake is not only delicious but also a true work of art, with a look that will surely impress your guests. Let’s get to work!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients for the base:
- 8 eggs
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 8 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (about 10 g)
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- Rum essence (1-2 drops)

Ingredients for the cream:
- 2 packets of vanilla cream (e.g., Dr. Oetker or other preferred brands)
- 500 ml milk
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 500 ml whipped cream (ideally, natural cream)
- 1 can of peaches (diced)
- 1 can of pineapple (diced)

Ingredients for decoration:
- Whipped cream (for decoration)
- Silver candies (for ornaments)
- Small chocolate candies (for the tree trunk)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the base:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat). In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. It’s important that the bowl used for the egg whites is clean and dry to achieve perfect foam. Add a pinch of salt over the egg whites and start beating them with a mixer on high speed until they become foamy. Then, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm and glossy foam.

2. Adding the yolks:
Reduce the mixer speed and add the yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. When the mixture becomes homogeneous, add water (about 2-3 tablespoons) and mix gently.

3. Combining the dry ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and cocoa powder. Sifting these ingredients is essential to avoid lumps. Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, along with the rum essence, and fold gently with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.

4. Baking:
Line a rectangular baking tray (about 30x20 cm) with parchment paper and pour the mixture evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the base is well browned and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the middle; if it comes out clean, the base is ready).

5. Preparing the cream:
While the base is baking, prepare the cream. In a bowl, mix the two packets of vanilla cream with the milk and sugar according to the package instructions. By continuously mixing, you will obtain a smooth and aromatic cream. Separately, whip the cream until firm, then fold it into the vanilla cream, mixing gently until homogeneous. Add the diced fruits and mix again.

6. Assembling the cake:
Once the base has completely cooled, cut it into three equal parts. Soak each layer with the juice from the peach can to add moisture and flavor. Place one layer on a serving platter, add a layer of cream, then another layer of cake, and repeat the process: cream, cake, cream. The last layer will be cream.

7. Decorating:
For a festive look, use the remaining whipped cream to decorate the cake in the shape of a tree. Use silver candies to create sparkling ornaments, and the tree trunk can be made with chocolate candies.

Practical tips:
- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for a homogeneous mixture.
- You can experiment with different flavors by adding a little almond or orange extract instead of rum.
- The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh, on the same day.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake, while delicious, also contains beneficial ingredients, such as the fruits from the can, which provide vitamins and fiber. Natural cream and vanilla cream add a boost of calcium and protein. However, considering the amount of sugar, it is best enjoyed in moderation.

Ideal combinations:
The Christmas Tree Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of fruit tea or sparkling wine, adding elegance to the meal. It can also be served alongside vanilla ice cream or a berry sauce, which will complement the sweet taste and add a contrast of textures.

Personal stories:
I remember how every year, my mother would prepare this cake for Christmas parties. We would gather around the table, and each bite was filled with memories and laughter. Making this cake means bringing the same moments of joy and happiness into your homes.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your chef’s clothes and start the culinary adventure! The Christmas Tree Cake awaits to be enjoyed and admired, and each slice will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!