Egg White Cake

Egg White Cake: The Delight that Turns Waste into Indulgence

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 40-50 minutes
Servings: 8-10

The history of egg white cake is tied to the ingenuity of chefs who have always sought creative solutions to avoid food waste. This simple and delicious dessert is an excellent way to use leftover egg whites from other dishes, such as mayonnaise or creams. So, if you have ever faced the dilemma of 'What to do with egg whites?', this recipe is the perfect answer!

Ingredients needed:

- 1 cup (approximately 200 ml) of egg whites (about 4-5 large egg whites)
- 1 cup of sugar (preferably fine sugar for a more uniform texture)
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 cup of raisins (you can choose golden or black raisins, depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds (for a slightly nutty flavor)
- ½ packet of baking powder (approximately 5 g)
- 50 g of oil (sunflower oil or canola oil, depending on your preference)
- 2 packets of vanilla (or vanilla essence)
- Juice and zest of one lemon (freshly squeezed for a vibrant taste)

Step by step to a perfect cake:

1. Preparing the egg whites: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Ensure that the bowl you will use to beat the egg whites is clean and free from any grease, as this will help achieve a firm foam. Use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they become a firm, glossy foam. This step is crucial, as well-beaten foam will give the cake an airy texture.

2. Adding the sugar: While continuing to mix, gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, ensuring it is well incorporated. This will encourage the egg whites to become even more stable. At this point, you can add the vanilla and lemon zest, which will provide a delicious aroma.

3. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and poppy seeds. It is important to sift these ingredients to avoid lumps. Then, gradually add them to the egg whites mixture, gently folding with a spatula from the top down to avoid deflating the foam.

4. Adding the raisins and oil: Finally, add the raisins and oil. Gently mix so that the raisins are evenly distributed in the batter. The oil will provide moisture to the cake, making it tastier.

5. Preparing the baking pan: Grease a loaf pan with oil and dust it with flour. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and ensure a beautiful presentation.

6. Baking: Pour the batter into the pan and level the surface. Preheat the oven to 160°C (low heat) and bake the cake for 40-50 minutes. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 30 minutes of baking, as temperature variations can cause the cake to collapse.

7. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top, but I prefer to serve it plain so it’s not too sweet.

Practical tips:

- Ingredient variations: You can replace the raisins with nuts or dark chocolate for a more decadent cake. You can also add some diced Turkish delight, as the original recipe suggests, for a touch of freshness.
- Serving: This cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee, but I recommend pairing it with a vanilla sauce or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a complete indulgence.
- Nutritional benefits: This egg white cake is higher in protein and lower in fat than a traditional cake. The raisins add fiber and antioxidants, while the poppy seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use egg yolks in the recipe?: Although the recipe is specifically designed for egg whites, you can experiment by adding one yolk for a richer texture, but the cake will have a different consistency.
2. How can I tell if the cake is baked?: A simple trick is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is baked. If it remains wet, it needs more time.
3. What other recipes can I make with leftover egg whites?: Egg whites are perfect for making meringues, mousses, or light omelets.

In conclusion, the egg white cake is a simple yet delicious recipe, perfect for turning leftovers into a tasty dessert. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on this recipe. Enjoy!