Fine cake with cream cheese

The fine cake with cream cheese is a refined dessert that perfectly combines the fluffy texture of the base with the delicate cream cheese and a chocolate topping. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also a wonderful way to add a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether you enjoy it at a gathering with friends or on a special occasion, this cake will surely be appreciated by everyone.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 200 grams powdered sugar
- 400 grams flour
- 4 tablespoons high-quality cocoa
- 250 grams butter, preferably natural
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 200 ml milk

For the cream:
- 250 ml liquid cream
- 200 grams mascarpone
- 200 grams well-drained cottage cheese
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 50 grams cranberries soaked in alcohol (cherry liqueur, rum, or your preferred)

For the glaze:
- 50 ml cream
- 150 grams dark chocolate, high quality
- A handful of walnuts and hazelnuts, coarsely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the base

1. Melting the butter: Start by melting the butter either in a bain-marie or in the microwave. Make sure it is completely melted but do not let it boil. Quality butter will make a significant difference in the taste of the cake.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a tall bowl, add the melted butter and mix it with a mixer on low speed. Gradually add: honey, eggs, powdered sugar, baking soda, cocoa, and flour. Mix well until you obtain a fine, homogeneous composition.

3. Adding the milk: Gradually incorporate the milk while continuously mixing to avoid lumps. The final consistency should be slightly thicker than pancake batter.

4. Baking the base: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a 20x30 cm baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and level it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test (the toothpick should come out clean).

Step 2: Preparing the cream

1. Hydrating the cranberries: If you chose to use cranberries, it's recommended to hydrate them beforehand. You can use cherry liqueur, rum, or any other alcohol you prefer. Let them soak for about 30 minutes.

2. Mixing the cream ingredients: In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese with mascarpone and sugar. Use a mixer to achieve a fine composition.

3. Incorporating the cream: Add the liquid cream and mix until the cream becomes firm and slightly airy. Make sure you don’t lose patience – well-beaten cream will make the cream fluffier.

4. Adding the cranberries: Drain the hydrated cranberries and fold them into the cream cheese, mixing gently to avoid crushing them.

5. Spreading the cream on the base: Once the base has completely cooled, pour the cream evenly over it, leveling it with a spatula.

Step 3: Preparing the glaze

1. Melting the chocolate: In a small pot, heat the cream over low heat. Add the broken chocolate pieces and stir constantly until it completely melts and becomes a homogeneous mixture.

2. Applying the glaze: Pour the chocolate glaze over the cream cheese, leveling it again with a spatula for an even appearance.

3. Decorating the cake: Sprinkle the coarsely chopped nuts and hazelnuts on top, which will add extra texture and flavor.

Useful tips

- Calories and nutritional benefits: This cake is a delicious choice, but like any dessert, it contains calories. A serving has about 300-350 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used. Cottage cheese and mascarpone provide important proteins, while nuts add healthy fats.

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts or replace the cranberries with other dried fruits, such as raisins or apricots. You can also use a different type of chocolate for a different glaze.

- Serving suggestions: This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, but you can also try a sweet wine or a flavored liqueur for a special experience.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use low-fat cottage cheese? Yes, but keep in mind that the texture and taste of the cream may be slightly different.

- How can I tell if the base is baked? Use a toothpick – if it comes out clean, the base is ready.

- Can I prepare the cake in advance? Absolutely! This cake keeps well in the fridge and becomes even tastier the next day when the flavors have melded.

So, don’t hesitate to try this fine cake with cream cheese! It is a dessert that will delight any palate and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!