Coffee Cake

The perfect dessert for those who love intense flavors and delicious combinations is undoubtedly the coffee cake. This recipe blends the fluffy texture of the sponge with a rich and aromatic cream, turning each slice into an unforgettable experience. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply want to indulge yourself, the coffee cake is the ideal choice. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 70 minutes
- Servings: 12

Ingredients
For the sponge
- 8 eggs
- 10 tablespoons of water
- 1 cup of sugar (approximately 200 g)
- 250 g flour
- 100 g cocoa

For the cream
- 200 g butter (Rama maestro type)
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 4 teaspoons of coffee (or more, to taste)

Necessary utensils
- Baking tray (40 x 50 cm)
- Mixer or whisk
- Bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Spatula
- Oven
- Baking paper (optional)

The History of Coffee Cake
The coffee cake is a dessert that has gained popularity due to its unique combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. With deep roots in pastry traditions, this type of cake brings together the most beloved flavors: chocolate, coffee, and vanilla. It is a dessert that blends technique with passion, offering a sweet pleasure with every bite.

Step by step to achieve a perfect result

Step 1: Preparing the sponge
1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure no yolk remains in the whites, as this can prevent proper whipping.
2. Whipping the egg whites: Use a mixer to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy sponge.
3. Boiling water with sugar: In a saucepan, combine water with sugar and bring to a boil. Once the sugar has completely dissolved, pour it in a thin stream over the egg whites, gently mixing with a wooden spoon. This process will help stabilize the egg whites.
4. Incorporating the yolks: Gradually add the yolks and mix gently to avoid losing air in the mixture.
5. Adding flour and cocoa: Sifting the flour and cocoa helps achieve a fine texture. Add them to the mixture, folding gently from top to bottom to avoid deflating the foam.

Step 2: Baking
1. Preparing the tray: Grease the tray with oil and dust with flour (or use baking paper) to prevent sticking.
2. Pouring the mixture: Carefully pour the sponge mixture into the tray, smoothing the surface.
3. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the sponge for 40 minutes. Check if it is done by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 3: Preparing the cream
1. Whipping the butter: In a bowl, place the soft butter and powdered sugar. Mix well until the butter becomes creamy and the sugar is completely melted.
2. Adding the yolks: Incorporating the yolks into the butter cream will add extra richness. Mix well.
3. Whipping the remaining egg whites: Beat the remaining egg whites until they form peaks, then gently fold them into the butter cream.
4. Incorporating the liquid cream: Whip the liquid cream until it is firm and fold it into the mixture gently.
5. Adding the coffee: Finally, incorporate the coffee into the cream. You can adjust the amount of coffee based on your preferences.

Step 4: Assembling the cake
1. Cooling the sponge: Allow the sponge to cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Filling: Cut the sponge into two or three layers (if desired) and fill them with the prepared cream, ensuring each layer is evenly covered.
3. Decoration: You can decorate the cake with grated chocolate or chocolate glaze, adding an elegant touch.

Chef's tip
For an even more intense flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla essence to the butter cream. You can also experiment with different types of cocoa to achieve a distinct flavor. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use another type of oil to grease the tray?
Yes, you can use sunflower oil or melted butter.

- What can I do if I don't have coffee?
You can replace the coffee with instant coffee or even with additional cocoa, depending on your preferences.

- How can I store the cake?
The cake stores excellently in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.

Pairings and serving
The coffee cake pairs wonderfully with aromatic coffee or herbal tea. Additionally, vanilla or chocolate ice cream alongside the cake will add a touch of indulgence. For a special event, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top before serving.

Nutritional benefits
This cake contains nutritious ingredients such as eggs, which are an excellent source of protein and vitamins, while cocoa adds antioxidants. Of course, it is a dessert, so it is best to consume in moderation.

Possible variations
- Fruit version: You can add pieces of banana or strawberries between the cream layers for a fresh touch.
- Nut cake: Add ground nuts to the sponge for a crunchy texture.
- Vegan: You can experiment with vegan butter and egg substitutes to create a vegan-friendly version.

The coffee cake is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that brings joy and indulgence with every bite. So, don't hesitate, gather the ingredients and let yourself be carried away by the magic of cooking! Enjoy!