Cocoa cake

Cocoa Cake – a fluffy and aromatic delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 55-65 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

In the culinary world, cocoa cake is a dessert that brings joy and nostalgia. It is that type of simple yet flavorful recipe that reminds us of family moments, the warm taste of childhood, and friendship. Very versatile, this cake can be served with coffee among friends or at a festive meal. Let's discover together how to prepare it!

Ingredients:
- 500 g of margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 500 g of sugar
- 50 g of cocoa
- 1 cup of concentrated coffee (about 250 ml)
- 3 tablespoons of milk
- 6 eggs (separate the yolks from the whites)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (quenched with lemon juice)
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar (or a vanilla essence)
- 300 g of flour
- A pinch of salt
- Juice from one lemon (optional, to enhance the flavors)

Step by step for a perfect cake:

1. Preparing the mixture: In a medium saucepan, place the margarine (or butter) together with the sugar, cocoa, concentrated coffee, and milk. This mixture will give the cake a deep flavor and a moist texture. Heat the ingredients over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Once combined, let the mixture cool.

2. Separating the mixture for soaking: From the cooled mixture, take out a cup (about 200-250 ml) that you will use later to soak the cake. This will add moisture and extra flavor.

3. Adding the dry ingredients: To the rest of the cooled mixture, add the 6 egg yolks, a teaspoon of baking powder quenched with lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

4. Incorporating the flour: Gradually add the 300 g of flour, stirring constantly. Sifting the flour together with the baking powder is an excellent technique that helps achieve a fluffier texture for the cake.

5. Beating the egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat the 6 egg whites with the 3 packets of vanilla sugar until you achieve a firm foam. This is the stage where the cake will gain its airiness. Carefully fold the egg white foam into the cocoa mixture using a spatula to avoid losing the air from the egg whites.

6. Baking the cake: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Pour the mixture into two well-greased or lined cake pans. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important to bake at a low temperature to avoid burning the top while keeping the interior moist.

7. Glazing: After the cake is baked, let it cool slightly. Use the reserved mixture to glaze the cake. You can choose to glaze the whole cake or cut it into slices and glaze them individually. This glaze will not only add an attractive appearance but also an intense flavor.

Serving suggestions:
This cocoa cake pairs perfectly with a cup of fresh coffee or a fragrant tea. Also, try serving it alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Interesting variations:
- Rum-flavored cake: You can add 1-2 tablespoons of rum essence to the cocoa mixture for a more exotic taste.
- Nut cake: Add 150 g of chopped nuts to the cake mixture for an extra crunch.
- Fruit cake: Try adding small cubes of bananas or apples to the cocoa mixture for a fruity note.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Why is it important to sift the flour? Sifting the flour helps eliminate lumps and introduces air, which contributes to a fluffier texture.
2. Can I use oil instead of margarine? While oil is an alternative, margarine or butter provides a richer flavor and better texture.
3. How can I tell if the cake is baked? Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Nutritional information (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Protein: 5 g

Cocoa cake is a quick and simple recipe that is worth trying, whether you want to impress a guest or treat yourself. Enjoy!