Dacquoise cake with poppy seeds and fruits

Dacquoise Cake with Poppy Seeds and Fruits: A Delightful Explosion of Flavor and Texture

If you're looking for a dessert that harmoniously combines poppy seeds, fruits, and a delicious cream, the Dacquoise cake with poppy seeds and fruits is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only an explosion of flavors but also offers a unique textural experience, with a moist base and a velvety cream. The history of this cake has its roots in pastry tradition, known for its use of whipped egg whites and natural ingredients. Let’s embark on our culinary adventure!

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

Ingredients

For the base:
- 400 g egg whites (approximately 12 large eggs)
- 250 g sugar
- 300 g ground poppy seeds
- 200 g starch flour
- 100 g additional sugar
- One vanilla pod
- 1.5 packets of baking powder
- A pinch of salt

For the cappuccino cream:
- 1 l cappuccino (you can also use espresso)
- 4 egg yolks
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g starch
- 50 g cocoa
- A little coffee liqueur or rum (optional)
- Fruits (strawberries, peaches, or other seasonal fruits)
- Gelatin (according to package instructions)
- Dark chocolate pieces (for decoration)

Preparing the Base

1. Whip the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to whip them until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add the 250 g of sugar while continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy meringue.

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the starch flour, ground poppy seeds, the additional 100 g of sugar, baking powder, and the seeds from the vanilla pod. This combination will add a subtle vanilla flavor and enhance the texture of the base.

3. Combine the mixtures: Add the dry ingredients mixture to the bowl with the whipped egg whites using a spatula. Gently fold from the bottom up to maintain the airiness, which is essential for a fluffy base.

4. Bake the base: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper. You can use a square or round tray, depending on your preference. Bake the base for 40-45 minutes, leaving the oven door slightly ajar for the last 10 minutes (use a piece of wood to hold it open) to prevent collapsing.

Preparing the Cappuccino Cream

1. Heat the cappuccino: In a saucepan, heat the cappuccino over low heat, being careful not to boil it.

2. Prepare the cream: In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar and starch. Gradually add the warm cappuccino to the mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Place the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly with a fork until the cream thickens.

3. Finish the cream: Once the cream has thickened, transfer it to a bowl and mix well to cool evenly. Add the cocoa and, if desired, a little coffee liqueur or rum for extra flavor.

Assembling the Cake

1. Cut the base: Once the base has completely cooled, carefully cut it into two equal halves. Use plastic wrap to facilitate cutting.

2. Assemble the cake: On the first half of the base, spread half of the cappuccino cream. Place the sliced fruits (strawberries and peaches are excellent) on top. Cover with the second half of the base.

3. Finish with gelatin: Prepare the gelatin according to the package instructions, adding a little mandarin liqueur and lemon juice for a fresh taste. Pour the gelatin over the fruits, making sure to cover them evenly.

4. Decorate: Trim the edges of the cake for a uniform appearance and decorate with dark chocolate pieces on top.

Serving Suggestions

The Dacquoise cake with poppy seeds and fruits can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A chocolate sauce or fresh fruit syrup will add an extra touch of flavor.

Practical Tips and Variations

- Poppy Seeds: Ensure that the poppy seeds are freshly ground to retain their flavor. You can use a mortar or a food processor to achieve a fine texture.
- Fruits: If you don’t have fresh fruits, you can use frozen fruits, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid excess water in the cake.
- Cream: You can experiment with different flavors for the cream, such as coffee, white chocolate, or even a mix of fruits.

Nutritional Benefits

The Dacquoise cake with poppy seeds is not only delicious but also nutritious. Poppy seeds are an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants, while the fruits add essential vitamins and fiber. The starch flour provides a slightly crunchy texture, and the egg whites are rich in protein, making this cake a healthier choice compared to other desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to do so without adding gelatin and fruits. You can thaw it and decorate it to your liking afterward.

2. Can I substitute poppy seeds with another ingredient?
Certainly! You can use ground nuts or almonds for a different variation, keeping in mind that each ingredient will bring a specific flavor note.

3. How long can it be stored in the refrigerator?
The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best in the first 2 days when the base is fresh and the cream is velvety.

Surely, the Dacquoise cake with poppy seeds and fruits will become a favorite among your loved ones. Experiment with the ingredients and customize it to your tastes. Don’t forget to share this delicacy with your loved ones and enjoy every delicious slice! Enjoy!