Cocoa cake

Delicious cocoa cake recipe – a simple and savory dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-65 minutes
Number of servings: 8

The dessert I propose today is cocoa cake, a perfect choice for indulgent moments alongside a fragrant coffee or a cup of warm milk. This cake is not only easy to prepare, but it also has a unique taste, making it ideal for a quick dessert when you have guests or simply want to treat yourself. So, let’s get to work!

A bit of history

The cake, also known as "pound cake" in Western tradition, has a long history, dating back to times when people used simple ingredients to create delicious desserts. This dessert is characterized by a moist texture and rich flavor, being extremely versatile – it can be customized with various flavors or added ingredients.

Necessary ingredients

- 100 g soft butter (important to be at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 150 g sugar (I recommend granulated sugar, but you can also experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 3 eggs (preferably fresh, from a reliable source)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder activated with vinegar (the vinegar helps activate the leavening agent, resulting in a fluffy cake)
- 150 ml milk (you can use whole milk or alternatives like almond milk)
- 250 g flour (white flour is the most suitable, but you can also try whole grain options for a healthier cake)
- 20 g cocoa (high-quality cocoa will add an intense flavor)
- butter for greasing the cake pan
- 1 tablespoon flour (for dusting the pan)

Step by step – Guide for a perfect cake

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a uniform emulsion. Start by preparing the cake pan: grease it with butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

2. Mixing the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, add the soft butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer to combine them at medium speed until the mixture becomes creamy and pale white. This step is crucial, as the air incorporated will help the cake rise.

3. Adding the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help with good emulsification. Don’t panic if the mixture seems to separate at first; it will return to a uniform consistency once you add the other ingredients.

4. Incorporating the milk and baking powder: Pour the milk into the butter and egg mixture and gently mix with a spatula or the mixer on low speed. Then, add the baking powder activated with vinegar, mixing well to homogenize.

5. The dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour and cocoa together. This step is important to avoid lumps. Then, add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, gently mixing with a spatula until everything is well incorporated.

6. Pouring the mixture into the pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed. You can level it off with a spatula for a uniform appearance.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cake for 30-40 minutes. It’s important to check the consistency with a toothpick – if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

8. Cooling and slicing: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it to a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Serving suggestions

The cocoa cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with warm chocolate sauce, vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, a serving of fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries will add a refreshing note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of sweetener? Yes, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but the quantities may vary.

2. How can I improve the recipe? You can add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon or vanilla to give it a unique flavor.

3. What if I don’t have cocoa? You can omit the cocoa and instead add vanilla extract or other flavors for a plain cake.

Nutritional benefits

The cocoa cake has a moderate calorie content, and its ingredients can provide nutritional benefits. Butter offers healthy fats, and cocoa is rich in antioxidants. However, moderate consumption is essential, considering the sugar content.

This cocoa cake recipe is not only a delicious dessert but also an opportunity to enjoy the moments spent in the kitchen. So, put on your apron and let your imagination run wild!