Dessert dome cake with vanilla and caramel

The dessert that combines the intense flavor of vanilla with the sweetness of caramel is always a winning choice, and the dome cake with vanilla and caramel is a perfect example of this combination. This recipe not only impresses with its elegant appearance but also with its creamy texture and exquisite taste. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply indulge yourself, this dessert is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Let's begin this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 3-4 hours
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the base:
- 3 small eggs
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons caramel syrup (or made from caramelized sugar)
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 3 tablespoons flour

For the vanilla cream:
- 6 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 250 ml liquid cream
- 10 g gelatin (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract

For the caramel cream:
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 100 ml liquid cream

For decoration:
- 150 g mascarpone
- 200 ml liquid cream (for whipping)
- Grated white chocolate (for decoration)

Brief History

Dome cakes are a tradition in various culinary cultures, often associated with festive occasions due to their impressive appearance. This recipe brings together simple yet refined ingredients that transform an ordinary cake into a masterpiece. The combination of vanilla and caramel is a classic choice, elegantly reinterpreted in this dessert.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Base

Step 1: Start by preparing the caramel syrup. In a saucepan, caramelize the 3 tablespoons of sugar. When it turns golden, carefully add 50 ml of water (be careful, as it will steam!). Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cool.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing for 2-3 minutes until you obtain a firm and shiny meringue.

Step 3: Add the egg yolks, oil, flour, and cooled caramel syrup. Gently fold with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.

Step 4: Line a 20 cm cake tin with butter and flour, then pour in the batter. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes. Check if it’s done with a toothpick test – if it comes out clean, the base is perfect.

2. Preparing the Cream

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar over a double boiler, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture becomes homogeneous.

Step 2: Hydrate the gelatin in 100 ml of cold water for 10 minutes, then add it to the egg yolk mixture. Mix well until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

Step 3: In another bowl, whip the liquid cream with the vanilla extract until firm. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the egg yolk mixture until well combined.

3. Preparing the Caramel Cream

Step 1: In a saucepan, caramelize the 5 tablespoons of sugar, then extinguish it with 100 ml of liquid cream. Boil the mixture for 4-5 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved and the cream thickens.

4. Assembling the Cake

Step 1: Line a 20 cm bowl with plastic wrap. Place half of the vanilla cream in the bowl.

Step 2: Add the cooled caramel cream over the vanilla cream, leveling it well.

Step 3: Pour the remaining vanilla cream on top and level again.

Step 4: Invert the baked base over the mixture in the bowl and press gently to adhere. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3-4 hours, or even better, overnight.

5. Decorating the Cake

Step 1: Once the cake has cooled and set, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Remove the plastic wrap.

Step 2: In a bowl, whip the liquid cream with mascarpone until firm. Use this mixture to decorate the cake.

Step 3: Sprinkle grated white chocolate on top for an elegant look and added flavor.

Useful Tips

- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use good quality butter and fresh eggs for a better taste.
- Gelatin: Make sure the gelatin is well-hydrated to achieve a smooth cream.
- The Fridge is Your Friend: Letting the cake chill in the fridge will give you a better texture and enhanced flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace gelatin with another ingredient?
You can use agar-agar as a vegan alternative, but it will require adjustments in the preparation process.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

3. Can I add other flavors?
Certainly! You can add a splash of coffee or cocoa to the vanilla cream for a different taste.

Recommended Pairings

This dome cake with vanilla and caramel pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or specialty coffee. Additionally, a berry sauce can add a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the dessert.

Conclusion

The dome cake with vanilla and caramel is a dessert that not only brings joy through its taste but also through its elegant appearance. Every bite offers an explosion of flavors, and the preparation process will teach you a lot about the art of pastry. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to impress everyone with this wonderful dessert! Enjoy!