Economic cake

Economic Cake - a simple, delicious, and budget-friendly dessert

If you're looking for a quick and tasty dessert recipe, you've come to the right place! The economic cake is not only easy to make but also an excellent choice when you want to impress without spending too much. This recipe combines a fluffy texture with a sweet aroma, making it perfect for any occasion, from a gathering with friends to a family meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Ingredients needed:

- 12 fresh eggs
- 2 cups of flour (approximately 250 g each)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 2 cups of sugar (approximately 400 g)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 teaspoons of rum essence (or vanilla, depending on your preference)
- Grated zest of one lemon (for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder (for the chocolate mixture)
- 1 packet of baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavor)

A bit of history

The cake has deep roots in culinary tradition, evolving over the centuries. It is believed that this dessert was originally made in traditional households, where ingredients were simple and accessible. Over time, the cake has become a symbol of conviviality, often served at celebrations and gatherings, bringing people together around a table.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature. This will help the egg whites whip better and achieve a fluffy texture.

2. Whip the egg whites: In a large bowl, start by beating the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until frothy. Gradually add the sugar (the 2 cups) and continue mixing until you achieve a firm, glossy meringue. This is key for a fluffy cake, so take your time!

3. Beat the egg yolks: In another bowl, add the egg yolks, a pinch of salt, vanilla sugar, and the rum and lemon essences. Mix for a few minutes until the mixture becomes light in color and creamy.

4. Combine the two mixtures: Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped egg whites into the egg yolk mixture. Do this with circular motions to maintain the air in the egg whites.

5. Add the oil and flour: Add the oil and the baking powder, followed by the sifted flour. Mix gently until everything is well combined and homogeneous.

6. Prepare the cocoa mixture: In a separate bowl, take a few spoonfuls of the white mixture and mix them with the 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder. You can adjust the amount of cocoa depending on how intense you want the chocolate flavor to be.

7. Prepare the baking pans: Grease two loaf pans with oil and dust them with flour. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan after baking.

8. Pour the mixture: Pour a layer of the white mixture into each pan, followed by a layer of the cocoa mixture. You can use a fork to create a marbled effect by gently swirling the two mixtures together.

9. Bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium) and bake the cake for 40 minutes. Test with a toothpick to check if it’s baked through; if it comes out clean, it’s done!

10. Cooling and serving: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can dust it with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

Practical tips

- If you want to add extra flavor, you can experiment with other essences, such as amaretto or almond.
- Instead of cocoa, you can use melted chocolate for an even richer taste.
- You can replace some of the flour with almond meal for a healthier cake with a different texture.
- This cake keeps well at room temperature for a few days, but it can also be frozen for later enjoyment.

Pairing and serving

The economic cake is delicious on its own, but it can be accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm chocolate sauce. A cup of coffee or a fragrant tea is also a perfect choice to complement the dessert.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use farm-fresh eggs?
Yes, farm-fresh eggs are excellent for this recipe and can add a richer flavor.

2. Can the cake be made without eggs?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute, such as applesauce or yogurt, but the texture will be different.

3. How can I tell when the cake is done?
Test with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is baked. Alternatively, you can check if the cake is springy to the touch.

4. Can I add fruits to the mixture?
Yes, you can add dried or fresh fruits, but make sure they are well-drained to avoid affecting the texture.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This economic cake recipe has approximately 280 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Although it is a dessert, the eggs provide protein, and whole flour can add fiber. However, it’s important to consume in moderation, considering the amount of sugar.

In conclusion, the economic cake is a versatile and accessible recipe, perfect for bringing a smile to your loved ones' faces. By experimenting with ingredients and flavors, you can create a unique dessert that becomes your and your family’s favorite. Don’t forget to share your culinary achievements with your loved ones and enjoy every bite!