Dream Cake

Dream Cake – a wonderful recipe for special moments

Welcome to the world of refined desserts! Today, I’m excited to share a cake recipe that my friend Mirela has named “Dream Cake.” This cake is not just a delicious combination of flavors, but also an unforgettable experience, perfect for celebrating special occasions. So, get ready to step into the kitchen and create a dessert that will make any moment truly memorable.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 2-3 hours (including cooling time)
Servings: 12

Ingredients needed:

For the layers:
- 10 egg whites
- A pinch of salt
- 10 tablespoons sugar
- 100 g shredded coconut
- 3 tablespoons flour

For the cream:
- 10 egg yolks
- 10 tablespoons sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 400 g butter (or Rama margarine)

For the syrup:
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 50 ml water
- 3 tablespoons brandy

Additionally, you will need:
- About 20 plain biscuits
- 200 g dark chocolate
- 4 tablespoons oil

Let’s start our culinary adventure!

Step 1: Preparing the layers

We begin with the delicate layers that will form the base of the cake. In a large bowl, add the egg whites along with a pinch of salt. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until they become frothy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes glossy and firm.

Helpful tip: Make sure the bowl and mixer attachments are completely clean and dry to achieve perfect peaks. If you’d like a hint of flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla extract.

In another bowl, mix the shredded coconut with the flour. This combination will give the layers a unique texture and delicious taste. Gently fold the coconut and flour mixture into the whipped egg whites using a spatula, employing gentle up-and-down motions. It’s essential to be delicate to avoid losing the air in the egg whites.

Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper (25x35 cm) and level it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10-15 minutes, or until the layers turn golden. Be careful, as the layers bake very quickly!

Step 2: Preparing the cream

In the meantime, let’s take care of the delicious cream. In a bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar until they turn a light color. Then, place the bowl over a pot of boiling water (bain-marie) and stir continuously for 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens. It’s important not to panic – constant stirring is key to achieving a smooth cream.

Once the cream has cooled, incorporate the softened butter, mixing it in gradually until you obtain a smooth and airy cream. Divide the cream into three equal parts – one for each layer.

Step 3: Preparing the syrup

To add a splash of flavor to the cake, let’s prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, caramelize the sugar until it turns golden, then extinguish it with water, stirring continuously until it completely dissolves. Allow it to cool, then add the brandy. This will add a subtle hint of flavor, but feel free to omit it if you prefer.

Step 4: Assembling the cake

On a serving platter, place the first coconut layer. Spread a portion of the cream over the entire surface. Quickly dip the plain biscuits in the prepared syrup and layer them over the cream, forming an even layer.

For a touch of luxury, melt the dark chocolate together with the oil in a bain-marie or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the biscuits and place the cake in the freezer for 5 minutes, just enough time for it to set.

Once the chocolate has hardened, add the second portion of cream and then place the second coconut layer on top. Level the cream well and add the final portion of cream on top.

Step 5: Decorating and cooling

For an appealing look, decorate the cake with chocolate shavings or curls. This detail will make the dessert look truly special. Now, cover the cake with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours to cool and firm up properly.

Serving the cake

After the cake has chilled in the refrigerator, cut it into squares or rectangles. This cake is typically served as a dessert at festive meals, but it’s just as delicious as a sweet snack at any time of the day. You can pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruit sauce for a refreshing touch.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I substitute the butter in the cream?
Yes, you can use margarine or a reduced-fat butter, but the taste and texture may vary.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use chocolate with a higher cocoa content.

3. Can I use a different type of biscuit?
Yes, you can experiment with cocoa biscuits or other flavors, but make sure they are plain biscuits without filling.

Nutritional benefits

This cake offers a combination of protein from the eggs, healthy fats from the butter and coconut, as well as carbohydrates from the sugar and biscuits. Although it is a rich dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Possible variations

If you want to add a personal touch to the cake, you can replace the coconut with ground almonds or add fresh fruits (such as strawberries or raspberries) between layers for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Conclusion

Dream Cake is not just a simple dessert; it’s an experience that combines memories, celebrations, and moments of joy. Whether you make it for an anniversary, a party, or just to treat yourself, this cake will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, embrace your creativity in the kitchen and celebrate every moment with a slice of Dream Cake!