Citrus-flavored cake

Citrus Flavored Cake

Welcome to our kitchen, where gastronomic magic blends with enticing aromas! Today, I present to you a delicious recipe for a citrus-flavored cake, perfect for any celebration or simply to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. This cake, with a fluffy white base and a cocoa layer, is filled with a fine citrus cream that will surely win you over.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Cooling time: 1-12 hours (ideally overnight)
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

*For the white base:*
- 4 eggs
- 80 g sugar
- 60 g sifted flour
- 30 ml oil
- 1 teaspoon of freshly grated orange and lemon zest
- A pinch of salt

*For the cocoa base:*
- 4 eggs
- 80 g sugar
- 50 g sifted flour
- 20 g cocoa
- 1 teaspoon of grated orange and lemon zest
- A pinch of salt

*For the cream:*
- 400 g heavy cream
- 400 g sweet cheese (e.g., cottage cheese or Făgăraș cheese)
- 1 packet of gelatin
- 300 g powdered sugar
- Juice from 2 oranges
- Juice from 1 lemon
- Remaining grated orange and lemon zest
- Optional: chocolate flakes

*For decoration:*
- 200 g roasted and chopped walnuts
- 200 ml liquid or fresh whipped cream
- A few sliced mandarins

Preparation Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the bases

We start with the white base. Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you achieve a firm foam. Gradually add the sugar and grated citrus zest, continuing to beat until a glossy meringue forms. In a separate bowl, beat the yolks with the oil, then incorporate them into the meringue. Finally, add the sifted flour, gently mixing with a spatula to avoid deflating the mixture.

Pour the batter into a baking pan lined with parchment paper and bake at 180 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes. Once done, remove the base from the pan and let it cool on a rack.

Repeat the process for the cocoa base, adding the cocoa to the flour. This base will add a deep and rich note to your cake, perfectly complementing the citrus flavor.

Step 2: Preparing the citrus cream

In a deep bowl, mix the heavy cream with the sweet cheese and powdered sugar until you obtain a smooth, homogeneous cream. Then, incorporate the orange juice, lemon juice, and remaining grated zest.

Hydrate the gelatin in 75 ml of cold water, then melt it in a bain-marie (do not boil!). Once the gelatin is liquid, add it to the citrus cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 3: Assembling the cake

Now that you have all the components ready, it's time to assemble the cake. In an adjustable metal frame, place the first cocoa base. Pour three-quarters of the citrus cream and level it. Then, place the white base, pressing lightly to adhere. Pour the remaining cream and sprinkle the roasted and chopped walnuts on top, along with chocolate flakes if you choose to use them.

Step 4: Cooling and decorating

Cover the cake with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Ideally, let it sit overnight, during which the flavors will blend perfectly.

When you are ready to serve the cake, cut it into desired shapes and decorate with fresh whipped cream and slices of mandarin for a vibrant and appetizing look.

Practical tips:

1. Quality ingredients are key! Use fresh eggs and high-quality ingredients for the best results.
2. For an extra flavor boost: You can also add a few drops of vanilla extract to the citrus cream for a more complex taste.
3. Variations: Instead of walnuts, you can use roasted almonds or hazelnuts to change the texture and flavor of the cake.
4. Serving: This cake pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or an aromatic wine that complements the citrus flavors.

Nutritional information:

This cake is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, but also in healthy fats from the cream and nuts. Citrus flavors provide a boost of vitamin C, making it ideal for supporting the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a more rustic flavor and denser texture.
2. How can I store the cake? It keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days.
3. Is it possible to make the cake without sugar? You can replace sugar with natural sweeteners, but the taste and texture may vary.

I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every bite! Whether it's a special occasion or a simple evening at home, the citrus-flavored cake will surely become everyone's favorite! Enjoy!