CoffeeTime

CoffeeTime: The Perfect Delight for Coffee Lovers

If you are a true coffee lover and enjoy delicious sweets, this coffee and chocolate cake recipe is exactly what you need to delight your taste buds. A perfect combination of fluffy sponge, rich cream, and shiny glaze, this dessert will turn any moment of relaxation into a memorable experience.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
- Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the Sponge:
- 150 g flour
- 100 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 6 eggs
- 50 g dark chocolate
- Zest of one lemon
- A pinch of salt
- 1 packet baking powder

For the Cream:
- 6 egg yolks
- 250 g margarine (or butter, if you prefer)
- 150 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons coffee powder
- 2 tablespoons concentrated coffee

For Decoration:
- 150 g milk chocolate
- 50 g white chocolate
- 6 tablespoons oil

A Brief History of the Recipe

This coffee cake recipe blends tradition with innovation, having deep roots in dessert culture. Coffee has always been a beloved ingredient, not only for its distinctive aroma but also for the energy it provides. Dishes that include coffee are often associated with moments of socializing and relaxation, and this cake is perfect for enjoying with friends or family.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Sponge

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Make sure you have a 30 cm x 20 cm baking pan lined with parchment paper to facilitate the removal of the sponge.

2. Beating the Egg Whites: In a large bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use a mixer to beat them until foamy. Then add the sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes glossy and holds its shape.

3. Incorporating the Egg Yolks and Chocolate: Add the egg yolks one at a time, gently mixing after each addition. Pour in the melted dark chocolate (which can be melted in the microwave or over a double boiler) and the lemon zest. Gently fold to avoid losing air from the egg whites.

4. Adding the Flour: In a separate bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. Add this mixture to the egg mixture, using a spatula and mixing gently with circular motions from bottom to top.

5. Baking the Sponge: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and place it in the oven. Bake for about 25 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test (it should come out clean).

Preparing the Cream

1. Beating the Egg Yolks: In another bowl, mix the 6 egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture becomes light in color.

2. Double Boiler: Place the bowl over a double boiler. Stir continuously to prevent sticking. Add the coffee powder and the liquid coffee, continuing to stir until the cream thickens.

3. Cooling the Mixture: Turn off the heat and let the cream cool. It is essential that it is at the same temperature as the butter; otherwise, it risks curdling.

4. Incorporating the Butter: In another bowl, mix the butter (or margarine) until creamy. Add a tablespoon of the egg yolk cream, mixing well after each addition.

Preparing the Glaze

1. Chocolate Glaze: Over a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate with 4 tablespoons of oil and the white chocolate with 2 tablespoons of oil. You can adjust the amount of oil to achieve a thinner glaze that is easy to spread.

Assembling the Cake

1. Assembling the Sponge: Once the sponge has cooled completely, cut it in half. Fill the first half with the coffee cream, spreading it evenly.

2. Glazing: Place the second half of the sponge on top and pour the chocolate glaze over it, allowing it to spread evenly across the surface of the cake.

Practical Tips

- Choose Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- Fresh Coffee: Use freshly ground coffee for a richer taste.
- Ingredient Temperature: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better homogenization.
- Variations: You can replace dark chocolate with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. Additionally, you can add nuts or hazelnuts to the sponge for added texture.

Delicious Combinations

This coffee cake pairs perfectly with a cup of fresh coffee or a fragrant tea. You can also accompany the dessert with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, adding a touch of coolness and creaminess.

Nutritional Benefits

This dessert, while delicious, should be consumed in moderation. However, coffee has nutritional benefits, being rich in antioxidants and having stimulating effects on metabolism. Egg yolks provide quality protein, and dark chocolate is a good source of flavonoids.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace margarine with butter?
Yes, butter offers a richer taste, but margarine is a good option for those who want a lighter product.

2. How can I keep the cake fresh?
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for several days.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is well covered to prevent freezer burn.

Personal Note

This recipe is not just a dessert; it is an experience. The time spent in the kitchen, mixing the ingredients, is a moment of relaxation and creativity. Each bite of this coffee cake will bring you closer to those special moments spent with loved ones. So, don't hesitate to share this delight with your dear ones and create unforgettable memories!