Crispy cake

Crispy Cake: A Delicacy with the Taste of Memories

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't remember the taste of childhood cakes, those treats that brought the whole family around the table? The crispy cake is one of those recipes that makes you feel at home, with every bite blending textures and flavor. I received this recipe from my mother, full of love and memories, and today I want to share it with you.

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 fresh eggs (ideally from local farms for better taste)
- 200 g sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower oil is the most common, but olive oil can add an interesting note)
- 2 packets of baking powder (make sure they are fresh for optimal rise)
- 1 orange essence (or another preferred essence, like vanilla)
- Flour as needed (about 250-300 g, but adjust according to the desired consistency)
- 1 pinch of salt (helps balance the flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa (to add a layer of chocolate)
- Ground nuts (optional, for added texture)
- Jam (any kind, but preferably a sour one for the perfect contrast)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. Preheat the oven to 180°C (slightly higher if using the fan function).

2. Beating the Egg Whites:
In a large bowl, add the 3 egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to beat them until they become stiff peaks. This is the moment when air enters the mixture, so don't rush. You can check if they are well beaten by turning the bowl upside down - they should stay in place!

3. Adding the Sugar:
While continuing to mix, gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the egg whites become glossy and dense. This step is essential for achieving a light and airy texture.

4. Incorporating the Yolks:
Add the 3 yolks and continue mixing. The oil will be added slowly, in a thin stream, similar to mayonnaise. This helps emulsify the ingredients and will make the cake finer.

5. Adding the Dry Ingredients:
Sprinkle in the baking powder and orange essence. Start incorporating the flour gradually. Mix with a spatula or a wooden spoon, being careful not to overwork the mixture.

6. Creating the Composition:
Reserve 3 tablespoons of the batter to mix with cocoa. This mixture will add a delicious chocolate layer on top. If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, you can add a little more cocoa.

7. Assembling the Cake:
Pour the remaining batter into the lined baking pan. Spread evenly, then add a generous layer of jam on top. Use a sour jam, like cherry or raspberry, to balance the sweetness of the batter.

8. Decorating with Cocoa and Nuts:
Mix the 3 tablespoons of batter with cocoa and a little flour, then grate it directly over the jam. This will create a pleasant aesthetic effect and a crispy texture. If you like, you can also add ground nuts on top for extra flavor.

9. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cake turns golden. A trick to check if it is baked is to insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done!

10. Cooling and Serving:
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can sprinkle it with coconut to add a tropical note and a special appearance.

Practical Tips:
- If you want an even moister cake, you can add a layer of cream cheese over the jam before adding the cocoa mixture.
- Experiment with different types of jam, each offering a different note to your cake. Peach or strawberry jam are also wonderful!

Nutritional Benefits:
The crispy cake is a relatively light choice, with simple and accessible ingredients. Eggs are a good source of protein, while nuts provide healthy fats. The jam adds a delicious taste, but be mindful of the amount of sugar you use to maintain a healthy balance.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, olive oil or coconut oil can add interesting flavors.

2. Can the cake be stored?
Absolutely! You can keep it in an airtight container for a few days. Ideally, consume it within 3-4 days.

3. What drinks pair well with this cake?
A cup of black tea or flavored coffee are excellent companions. For a refreshing option, freshly squeezed orange juice is fantastic.

4. How can I vary the recipe?
You can add spices like cinnamon or ginger, or replace some of the flour with cocoa for a more chocolatey cake.

The crispy cake is not just a recipe, but an invitation to bring family and friends together. It is simple, quick, and most importantly, full of flavor. Try it and let yourself be carried away by tastes and memories!