Fluffy Negruta Cake

Fluffy Black Cake - An Unforgettable Delicacy

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I will share with you the recipe for a fluffy cake that will turn any meal into a special occasion. The Fluffy Black Cake is a perfect choice for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert at a dinner with friends. With its airy texture and unique flavor, this cake will surely become a family favorite. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 65-75 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients

- 200 grams of butter (at room temperature)
- 250 grams of sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 300 ml of milk
- 500 grams of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 50 grams of cocoa (optional, for the marbled version)

A Bit of History

The cake is a traditional dessert, appreciated in many cultures around the world. This special recipe, known as Negruța, is a simple and quick variant that combines basic ingredients to create a delicious dessert. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but it is certain that it has brought joy to the tables of many families.

Preparing the Oven

Before anything else, it is essential to prepare your oven. Preheat it to 180°C. This is a crucial step, as a well-heated oven will ensure even baking of the cake. It is recommended to do this step in advance, as the dough preparation is quick.

Preparing the Dough

1. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, add the soft butter (at room temperature) and mix it with the sugar and the two packets of vanilla sugar. Use an electric mixer to obtain a creamy and homogeneous mixture.

2. Adding the eggs: Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help to increase the volume and aerate the dough.

3. Incorporating the dry ingredients: Add the flour and baking powder, mixing at low speed to avoid splattering. Make sure there are no lumps left, as these can affect the final texture of the cake.

4. The milk: Gradually incorporate the milk into the mixture, continuing to mix. This will provide moisture and help achieve a fluffy texture.

5. The marbled version: If you want to try the marbled version, separate 2/3 of the mixture into another bowl and add cocoa to the remaining dough. Mix well, then alternately pour the two mixtures into the prepared pan.

Preparing the Pan

Choose a large loaf pan (36x12 cm) or two smaller ones. Grease the pan with butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. This step is essential to achieve a perfect cake that will easily come out of the pan.

Baking

1. Placing in the oven: Pour the dough into the prepared pan and place it in the preheated oven at 175°C. It is very important not to open the oven door in the first 30 minutes, to allow the cake to rise evenly.

2. Checking the baking: After 50-60 minutes, check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the middle. If it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked. If not, leave it for a few more minutes.

Cooling and Serving

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it onto a rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can decorate it with powdered sugar for an elegant look or with chocolate glaze for an extra flavor boost. This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk – a classic combination that will bring a smile to anyone's face!

Useful Tips and Variations

- Substitutions: If you want to reduce calories, you can use coconut butter or olive oil instead of butter. Also, sugar can be replaced with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

- Alternative flavors: Experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or nutmeg to give the cake a warm and comforting note.

- Add-ins: You can add chopped nuts, chocolate, or dried fruits to diversify the texture and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why doesn't the cake rise?
Make sure the ingredients are fresh, especially the baking powder, and do not open the oven in the first 30 minutes.

2. How to store the cake?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for a longer duration.

3. Can it be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Wrap it well in cling film and place it in a freezer bag. It can be kept for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Benefits

This fluffy cake balances carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The butter provides healthy fats, and the eggs are a good source of protein. Whole wheat flour can be used for added fiber.

In conclusion, the Fluffy Black Cake is a simple, quick, and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose the classic or the marbled version, the result will be a dessert that will delight the taste buds of your loved ones. Don't hesitate to experiment and add your personal touch! Enjoy!