Flavored cake

Aromatic Cake with Raisins and Nuts

This aromatic cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a delicious snack to a festive meal. With its fluffy texture and intense flavors, this cake will surely become your family's favorite. Start preparing your ingredients and enjoy the cooking process, as this cake is not only easy to make but also a true delight for the senses.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 1 cup of sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 1 cup of flour
- 5 tablespoons of water
- 1/2 packet of baking powder
- 30 g walnuts (chopped or ground)
- 1 handful of raisins
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- Zest of orange and lemon (about 1 teaspoon each)
- Juice of one lemon (optional)
- Rum essence (1-2 drops)
- Vanilla (1 packet or 1 teaspoon of extract)
- Cognac (to soak the raisins)

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by carefully separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowls you use for the egg whites are completely clean and dry, as any trace of fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. It's recommended to use egg whites that have been refrigerated, as they whip better.

2. Whipping the egg whites: In a large bowl, add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and, using a mixer, beat them until they form a foam. If you want to ensure you get a solid foam, you can add a little lemon juice - this will help stabilize the egg whites.

3. Preparing the syrup: In a saucepan, add the sugar and water, then place it over medium heat. Stir until a syrup forms. When the syrup is ready (about 5-7 minutes), gradually pour it over the whipped egg whites while continuing to mix. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake.

4. Combining the yolks: In another bowl, cream the egg yolks with the oil and add the rum essence, vanilla, and citrus zest. Mix well, then incorporate this mixture into the egg whites.

5. Incorporating the dry ingredients: Add the baking powder (you can use vinegar or lemon juice to activate it) and the flour, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air in the batter.

6. Preparing the cocoa mixture: Sift the cocoa with the cinnamon and mix it with about a quarter of the batter. This mixture will be used to create a marbled effect in the cake.

7. Soaking the raisins: In a small bowl, soak the raisins in cognac and let them absorb the flavor for 10-15 minutes. They will add a note of flavor and moisture to the cake.

8. Assembling the cake: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper. Start by pouring some of the batter into the pan, then add the soaked raisins and ground walnuts, which have been lightly toasted in the oven to enhance the flavor. Cover with the remaining batter and finally, add the cocoa mixture.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cake for 30-40 minutes, or until it passes the toothpick test (when the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is done).

10. Cooling and serving: Once removed from the oven, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a chocolate glaze for an extra touch of flavor.

Personal suggestion: This aromatic cake is delicious and easy to make, but you can vary the ingredients according to your preferences. Substitute the nuts with hazelnuts or almonds, add chocolate pieces or even candied fruits for an exotic touch. This quick dessert will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones!