Day and Night Cake

The "Day and Night" cake is a delight that combines textures and flavors in perfect harmony. This cake is a brilliant example of how simple ingredients can create unforgettable moments, making it ideal for a gathering with friends or a special dessert for family. With a moist base and a fluffy meringue, each slice brings a touch of joy. Let's prepare to make it step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:
- 6 eggs (separate the yolks from the whites)
- 1 cup of sugar (about 200 g) + 14 tablespoons of sugar (about 200 g)
- 1 package of margarine (200 g) (or butter, if you prefer)
- 3 tablespoons of cocoa (dark, for an intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (quenched with lemon juice)
- 1 essence of rum (for a subtle aroma)
- Flour (as needed, about 5-6 tablespoons)
- Sour jam (apricot or raspberry, for a delicious contrast)

Necessary utensils:
- Large mixing bowls
- Mixer or whisk
- Baking tray (standard size)
- Baking paper
- Spatula
- Knife for cutting (with a wet blade)

Step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the base composition
1. Beat the yolks: In a large bowl, add the 6 yolks and one cup of sugar. Use a mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes creamy and light in color.
2. Add the margarine: Melt the margarine (or butter) and let it cool slightly. Gradually add it to the yolk mixture, continuing to mix until incorporated.
3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Add the 3 tablespoons of cocoa, the baking powder quenched with lemon juice, the rum essence, and 5-6 tablespoons of flour. Mix until you obtain a homogeneous composition, similar to that of a cake. If it is too runny, add flour little by little until you achieve the desired consistency.

Step 2: Baking the base
1. Preheat the oven: Turn on the oven to 180°C (350°F). It is important to preheat it for even baking.
2. Prepare the tray: Line the baking tray with baking paper to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the composition into the tray and level it with a spatula.
3. Bake the base: Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Check with a toothpick - if it comes out clean, the base is ready.

Step 3: Preparing the meringue
1. Beat the egg whites: In another clean bowl, add the 6 egg whites. Use a mixer to beat them until foamy. Then, gradually add the 14 tablespoons of sugar and continue to beat until you obtain a firm and shiny meringue. Add a little rum essence for extra flavor.
2. Add the meringue over the cake: When the base is almost baked (after 25 minutes), remove the tray from the oven and spread it with the sour jam. Then, carefully add the meringue over the jam, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Finalizing the cake
1. Bake again: Put the tray back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the meringue becomes slightly golden and firm to the touch.
2. Cooling: Once cooled, let the cake cool completely in the tray. This will help stabilize the layers.
3. Cutting: Use a wet knife to cut the cake into equal pieces. This trick will prevent the meringue from breaking.

Serving and suggestions
The "Day and Night" cake can be served plain, but for an extra touch of refinement, sprinkle some cocoa, cinnamon, or chocolate flakes on top. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant fruit tea.

Useful tips:
- Choose quality ingredients: Use fresh eggs and good-quality margarine for a better taste.
- Experiment with jams: If you want to add a personal touch, try different types of jams, such as raspberry or strawberry.
- Storage: Keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered, and the taste will improve even more the next day.

Nutritional benefits:
The "Day and Night" cake contains protein from the eggs, as well as carbohydrates from sugar and flour. When consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet, offering a moment of indulgence.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can margarine be replaced with butter? Yes, butter offers a richer flavor and better texture.
2. Can I use another type of sweetener? Yes, but the baking time may vary.
3. How long does the cake last? It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week.

In conclusion, the "Day and Night" cake is a dessert that not only delights the eye but also brings an unforgettable taste. Experiment with this recipe and turn it into your own culinary masterpiece!