Cioki

Cioki Cake: A Simple and Delicious Treat for Any Occasion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Cioki Cake is a dessert that combines textures and flavors in a simple yet amazing way. This cake, resembling a sandwich of meringue and cream, is perfect for unexpected guests or simply to satisfy a sweet craving.

A Brief History of Cioki Cake

Although we do not know its exact origins, Cioki is a recipe that has become popular in many families due to its simplicity and delicious taste. A perfect combination of crispy meringue, soft cream, and nuts, this cake quickly became a favorite for everyone, often recommended on cooking forums and blogs.

Necessary Ingredients

- 6 egg whites
- 250 g powdered sugar + 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vinegar
- 6 egg yolks
- Half a pack of butter (about 125 g), softened
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 200 g ground nuts

Necessary Utensils

- Baking tray (with parchment paper)
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Steaming pot
- Spatula

Step by Step: Preparing Cioki Cake

1. Preparing the Meringue
Start by preparing the meringue. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add the 6 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm and shiny meringue. It is important not to stop mixing until the meringue forms stiff peaks.

*Helpful tip*: Ensure that the bowl and utensils are completely dry and free of grease; otherwise, the meringue will not rise properly.

2. The Magic Additive
Halfway through mixing, add a teaspoon of vinegar. This will help stabilize the meringue and give it a better texture.

3. Baking the Meringue
Line the baking tray with oiled parchment paper to prevent sticking. Using a spoon, carefully form 12 meringue discs on the paper. Place the tray in a preheated oven at 150°C and bake for about 30 minutes or until lightly browned. After baking, allow the discs to cool completely.

*Note*: Don’t worry if the meringue collapses as it cools; this is a normal phenomenon!

4. Preparing the Cream
In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with 250 g of powdered sugar and vanilla sugar. Place the mixture over steam and stir constantly until the cream thickens. Be careful not to leave it too long over the steam, or the sugar will caramelize, and the cream will become less pleasant in taste.

*Tip*: If you have had an unpleasant experience with caramelized sugar, don’t get discouraged! Even a cream that is not perfect can be enjoyed.

5. Finalizing the Cream
Once you have achieved the desired consistency, remove the cream from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, incorporate the softened butter and cocoa, mixing well until smooth.

6. Assembling the Cake
Now that you have all the components ready, it’s time to assemble the cake. Take a meringue disc, place a portion of cream on top, then add another meringue disc. Cover everything with a generous layer of cream and, using a spatula, coat the cake with the ground nuts, pressing gently to adhere.

*Serving suggestion*: Cioki is best served alongside a fragrant coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade. These drinks perfectly complement the sweet and rich flavor of the cake.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of Cioki (approximately 100 g) contains about 350-400 calories. It is a relatively calorie-rich cake due to the sugar and butter, but it also contains protein from the eggs and healthy fats from the nuts. It is important to consume it in moderation, considering its caloric content.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of nut?
Yes, you can experiment with various types of ground nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, for a different flavor.

- How can I store the cake?
Cioki keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure it is covered to prevent drying out.

- Can the cake be frozen?
Although not recommended, you can freeze the assembled cake. It is advisable to thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before serving.

Possible Variations

If you want to add a personal touch to your Cioki cake, you can try:
- Adding almond essence to the cream for an extra flavor.
- Using melted chocolate to glaze the cake after assembly.
- Replacing part of the sugar with natural sweeteners for a healthier version.

Cioki is not just a cake; it is a culinary experience that will bring you together with loved ones in a moment of pleasure and joy. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to indulge your taste buds, this recipe is simple, delicious, and envelops each bite in pleasant memories. So, go ahead and enjoy every step of the cooking process!