Coffee Cream Cake

In this recipe, I will show you how to prepare a delicious cake with vanilla and cocoa layers, filled with a flavorful coffee cream. It is a perfect dessert to celebrate special moments, such as your parents' 29th wedding anniversary. This recipe was passed down from my mother-in-law, and although I didn't take pictures during the preparation, I will do my best to guide you step by step so that the final result meets your expectations.

Preparation time:
- Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the vanilla layer:
- 4 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 2-3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 200 g flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder

For the cocoa layer:
- 4 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 200 g flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3-4 tablespoons cocoa
- rum essence

For the coffee cream:
- 800 ml sweet milk
- 8 egg yolks
- 400 g butter (at room temperature)
- 5-6 tablespoons instant coffee
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 1 vial rum essence
- 300 g sugar
- 150 g flour

For the syrup:
- 1 cup strong coffee, without grounds
- 3-4 tablespoons whisky

For decoration:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate candies
- Chocolate seashells

A brief history of the recipe
Cream cakes have been popular since ancient times, symbolizing joy and celebration. This recipe combines tradition with innovation, offering a dessert that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. The aroma of coffee, combined with vanilla and cocoa layers, creates a symphony of flavors that will impress any sweet lover.

Preparation

1. Preparing the layers

Vanilla layer:
1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color. This is the secret to a fluffy layer.
2. Mix the flour with the baking powder and gradually add it to the egg mixture, gently folding from the bottom up to keep the air in the batter.
3. Divide the batter into two equal parts and pour it into two cake pans lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes. Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the layer is ready.
5. After baking, let the layers cool on a rack.

Cocoa layer:
1. Repeat the same steps as for the vanilla layer, but add the cocoa and rum essence at the end, mixing well.
2. Bake the two cocoa layers in the same way.

2. Preparing the coffee cream
1. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until it completely dissolves.
2. Gradually add the flour and mix well.
3. Pour in the milk at room temperature and mix again, then place the mixture in a double boiler.
4. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
5. Let the cream cool. In the meantime, mix the butter with the instant coffee and cocoa until creamy.
6. When the milk cream has cooled, incorporate it into the butter mixture. Add the rum essence and mix well.
7. Divide the cream into four equal parts for assembly.

3. Assembling the cake
1. Place one vanilla layer on a platter and soak it with the coffee mixed with whisky.
2. Add one part of the coffee cream, then a cocoa layer, and repeat the process: soak, cream, vanilla layer, soak, cream, cocoa layer.
3. Finish with a final part of cream, leveling it well.
4. Decorate with whipped cream and chocolate candies for an attractive appearance.
5. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving suggestions
The cake can be served with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea to complement the rich taste of the coffee in the cream. Being a sophisticated dessert, it is perfect for special occasions but can also be enjoyed on a lazy afternoon.

Possible variations
- You can add chopped nuts or dried fruits between layers for extra texture.
- If you want a non-alcoholic version, omit the whisky and use only coffee for soaking.
- Instead of whipped cream, you can use a chocolate glaze for a decadent touch.

Nutritional benefits
This cake contains nutrient-rich ingredients, such as eggs, which are an excellent source of protein, and milk, which provides essential calcium. Cocoa brings antioxidants, and coffee can provide an energy boost.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture of the layers will be different. Whole wheat flour may make the layers denser.

- How can I prevent the layers from being dry?
Make sure not to overbake them. The toothpick test is essential.

- Is it possible to replace instant coffee with brewed coffee?
Yes, it is a good alternative, but adjust the amount based on the desired intensity.

This coffee cream cake is an excellent choice to celebrate important moments in your life. With these details and tips, I am sure you will succeed in creating a memorable dessert, full of love and beautiful memories. Enjoy!