Fluffy chocolate mini cake

Fluffy Chocolate Mini Cake: A Delight That's Easy to Make

Who doesn't love a fluffy, aromatic dessert with a decadent chocolate filling? The fluffy chocolate mini cake is a simple recipe, perfect for any occasion, from quick snacks between meals to parties or gatherings with friends. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a moment of indulgence that will brighten your day. Let's discover together how to prepare this quick dessert!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12 mini cakes

Necessary ingredients:

- 6 eggs (at room temperature)
- 250 g sugar
- 250 g butter (or margarine) at room temperature
- 25 g flour
- 3 sachets of vanilla sugar
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 4 tablespoons of chocolate chips (or 4 tablespoons of Finetti chocolate spread)
- ½ sachet of baking powder
- 2 tablespoons of butter for greasing the molds

Helpful tips about ingredients:

1. Butter: Choose high-quality butter, as it will influence the final taste of the dessert. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use margarine, but keep in mind that butter provides a richer flavor.
2. Eggs: Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for easier incorporation into the mixture, resulting in a fluffier texture.
3. Sugar: Vanilla sugar adds a hint of flavor, but you can also use vanilla essence for a more intense taste.
4. Chocolate chips: You can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on your preferences.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the mixture: Start by mixing the softened butter (at room temperature) with the sugar and vanilla sugar using a mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth consistency, where the sugar crystals are no longer felt. This is the aerated base that will make the cake fluffy.

2. Adding the eggs: Gradually incorporate the 6 eggs, mixing well after each addition. Add the grated lemon zest for a fresh aroma. Continue mixing until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes homogeneous.

3. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. Then, gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter and egg mixture, gently mixing with a spatula or using the mixer on low speed. Finally, add the chocolate chips and mix until evenly distributed.

4. Preparing the molds: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease the muffin or cake molds with butter and line them with baking paper. This will help in easily removing the mini cakes after baking.

5. Filling the molds: Pour the mixture into the molds, filling them up to 3/4 of their height. Use a piping bag or a spoon to add a teaspoon of Finetti chocolate spread on top of each portion for an extra burst of flavor.

6. Baking: Place the molds in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the mini cakes are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cooling: After removing them from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes in the molds, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Serving suggestions:

Mini cakes can be served plain, but for an extra indulgent moment, you can dust them with powdered sugar or even glaze them with melted chocolate. They are perfect alongside a cup of coffee or aromatic tea, and for those who prefer a fresher note, a mint tea or a fruit smoothie would be ideal.

Possible variations:

- Fruit mini cake: You can add pieces of apples, pears, or bananas instead of chocolate chips for a healthier option.
- Nut cake: Incorporate toasted nuts or hazelnuts for added crunch.
- Gluten-free cake: Use gluten-free flour to adapt the recipe for those with intolerances.

Nutritional benefits:

This fluffy chocolate mini cake contains eggs, which are rich in proteins and essential vitamins, while butter (or margarine) adds healthy fats to your diet. Moderation in consuming this dessert can provide a pleasant caloric intake, but remember that sweetness is key! Depending on the ingredients used, a serving has approximately 200-250 calories.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use oil instead of butter?
- Yes, but the texture will be different. Butter provides a richer and fluffier taste.

2. How can I tell if the mini cakes are done?
- Check them with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they are perfectly baked.

3. Can the mini cakes be stored?
- Yes, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

4. Can I freeze the mini cakes?
- Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-packaged.

I hope this fluffy chocolate mini cake recipe brings you smiles and delicious moments with your loved ones. Cooking is an art and a way to express love, so don't hesitate to experiment and put your personal touch on this superb dessert! Enjoy!