Cocoa layer cake with coconut cream

Cocoa Layer Cake with Coconut Cream – An Unexpected Delicacy

On an ordinary day, when the desire to cook intertwines with inspiration, magic can happen. This cocoa layer cake with coconut cream is the result of a culinary adventure born from a happy mistake. Although a different recipe was initially intended, it turned into a delicacy that won everyone's hearts – including my son's, who after the first bite couldn't help but say: "What can I do for you if it's so good?"

With a soft texture, filled with a delicate coconut cream and a shiny glaze, this cake will surely become one of your favorites. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step!

Preparation Time:
- Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12-16

Ingredients

Layers:
- 800 g flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- 150 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 5 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons lard
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 eggs
- Milk (as needed to obtain an elastic dough)

Cream:
- 800 ml milk
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 200 g sugar
- 150 g coconut
- 1 pack of butter (approximately 200 g)

Glaze:
- 100 g dark chocolate
- 4-5 tablespoons milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Layers
In a large bowl, mix the flour with the salt, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and baking powder. These dry ingredients will form the base of your layers, with cocoa adding a rich flavor and intense color.

Then add the honey, melted lard, and beaten eggs. Start incorporating the ingredients using a spatula or your hands. Finally, gradually add milk until you obtain an elastic, homogeneous dough that is easy to roll out.

Divide the dough into five equal parts. This is an important step, as each layer needs to be uniform to ensure a beautiful and even cake.

2. Baking the Layers
Preheat the oven to 150 degrees Celsius. Place the first part of the dough on a 35x25 cm baking tray lined with parchment paper or greased with butter, and spread it evenly. Bake the layer for 15-18 minutes until it becomes slightly firm but not too crispy.

Repeat the process with the other four parts of dough. It's important to monitor the baking time, as it can vary depending on your oven.

3. Preparing the Cream
In a saucepan, mix the flour with the sugar and gradually add the milk, stirring vigorously to avoid lumps. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir constantly.

When the mixture begins to thicken, add the coconut and mix well. After the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and add the butter. Stir until the butter melts completely and the cream becomes homogeneous.

4. Assembling the Cake
On a platter, place the first cocoa layer. Spread a portion of the warm cream over it. Continue with the second layer, spreading more cream, and repeat until the last layer. Finally, gently press the cake to ensure it sticks well together.

5. Preparing the Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt the dark chocolate with the milk over low heat, stirring constantly. When the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes homogeneous, pour it over the assembled cake. Use a spatula to level the glaze and distribute it evenly.

6. Cooling and Serving
Let the cake cool at room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for a few hours, ideally overnight. This will allow the layers to absorb the cream, resulting in an incredibly soft and delicious texture.

When you're ready to serve, cut the cake into squares or slices. You can decorate it with coconut flakes or grated chocolate for a festive look.

Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea. If you're looking for a more extravagant combination, you can try serving it with vanilla ice cream, which will add a pleasant contrast of temperature and texture.

Nutritional Benefits
The cocoa layer cake with coconut cream is not just a delicacy, but also a source of energy due to the sugar and healthy fats from the coconut. Although it is a dessert, it can be a good option to satisfy your sweet tooth in moderation.

Calories may vary, but on average, a serving contains between 250-300 calories. It is important to consume desserts in moderation and enjoy every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of flour?
- Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture of the cake may change.

2. How can I store the cake?
- The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days.

3. What are the possible variations?
- You can add chopped nuts to the cream or use white chocolate for the glaze for a different taste.

4. How can I make the cake less sweet?
- You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use chocolate with a higher cocoa content.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to grab the ingredients and get cooking! I wish you much success and, above all, bon appétit!