fine cake

The fine cake with cocoa and vanilla layers is a dessert that perfectly combines the intense flavors of chocolate with the delicacy of vanilla. This recipe, passed down from generation to generation, has become a favorite choice for special occasions, as well as for moments when we want to indulge in something sweet. Let's explore together the necessary steps to create this delicacy, which will surely delight everyone's taste buds.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the cocoa layers:
- 100 g Rama margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 1 teaspoon ammonium quenched with lemon juice (this helps achieve a fluffy texture)
- 400 g flour

For the vanilla layer:
- 3 eggs
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

For the cream:
- 500 ml milk
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 7 tablespoons sugar
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- Juice from 1 lemon (for a fresh taste that will balance the sweetness)

For the glaze:
- 3 egg whites
- 200 g sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the cocoa layers

1. Beat the margarine: In a large bowl, add the room temperature margarine and powdered sugar. Use a mixer to beat them together until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy.
2. Incorporate the egg: Add the egg and continue to beat until well combined.
3. Add the dry ingredients: Incorporate the cocoa, the ammonium quenched with lemon juice, and gradually add the flour, mixing with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a soft dough.
4. Divide the dough: Split the dough into two equal parts.
5. Bake the layers: Line the bottom of a tray with baking paper. Roll out one part of the dough on the bottom of the tray and bake for 10 minutes at medium temperature. Repeat with the second part of the dough.

Step 2: Preparing the vanilla layer

1. Beat the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. Then, gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until they become glossy.
2. Add the yolks: Incorporate the yolks, flour, and vanilla sugar, mixing gently.
3. Bake the vanilla layer: Pour the mixture into a buttered and lined baking tray. Bake for about 15 minutes until golden.

Step 3: Preparing the cream

1. Boil the milk: In a saucepan, mix the flour with the milk and sugar, then place on low heat. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
2. Let cool: After the cream has thickened, let it cool to room temperature.
3. Beat the butter: In another bowl, cream the butter with the vanilla sugar and lemon juice until creamy. Incorporate the cooled cream and mix well.

Step 4: Preparing the glaze

1. Beat the egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat over a water bath until you obtain a glossy glaze.

Step 5: Assembling the cake

1. Cocoa layer: Place the first cocoa layer on a platter. Spread half of the cream on top.
2. Add the vanilla layer: Carefully place the vanilla layer over the cream.
3. Cream layer: Add the remaining cream on top of the vanilla layer.
4. Finish with the second cocoa layer: Place the second cocoa layer on top.
5. Glaze: Cover everything with the egg white glaze and let the cake cool for 24 hours to set.

Helpful tip

To achieve an even more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla extract to the milk cream. Also, if you want to add a touch of originality, try sprinkling a little nutmeg or cinnamon on the cocoa layers.

Nutritional benefits

This cake, although rich in calories, contains ingredients with nutritional benefits. Milk provides calcium, and eggs are an excellent source of protein. Additionally, cocoa has antioxidants that can contribute to heart health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace margarine with butter?
Yes, butter provides a richer taste, but margarine is a healthier and easier alternative to use in recipes.

2. How can I store the cake?
Keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for a few days.

3. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
This recipe contains animal-derived ingredients, but you can experiment with substitutes for eggs and butter to create a vegan version.

Serving recommendations

This cake pairs perfectly with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a fragrant tea. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside can transform the dessert into a true culinary experience.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add a layer of fruit jam between the layers or replace sugar with healthier alternatives like honey or maple syrup.

This fine cake with cocoa and vanilla layers is not only a delicious dessert but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Enjoy every step of the preparation and savor every bite!