German-style cake

German-Style Cake Recipe: A Chocolate Delight for Unforgettable Moments

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 40-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I will guide you step by step in creating a special cake inspired by German culinary traditions. This rich chocolate dessert, flavored with coconut, is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an anniversary, a celebration, or simply a cozy evening at home with loved ones. Let’s get started!

Recipe History
The German-style cake has its roots in Central European pastry traditions. Here, chocolate plays an essential role, being a favorite ingredient. This recipe combines the fluffy texture of the cake with a fine glaze, creating a perfect contrast between intense flavors and delicate sweetness.

Ingredients
For the cake:
- 80g dark chocolate (preferably with 70% cocoa content)
- 1/3 cup hot water
- 130g soft butter (make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 eggs (separate the whites from the yolks)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (for the egg white foam)
- 1 cup flour
- 5 tablespoons shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- a pinch of salt
- 100g sour cream (for the glaze)
- 100g dark chocolate (for the glaze)
- a little butter for greasing the pan

Step by Step for a Perfect Result

1. Preheat the oven: Start by heating the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal temperature for achieving a fluffy, well-baked cake.

2. Prepare the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, place the broken chocolate and pour hot water over it. Mix well until the chocolate is completely melted. Let it cool slightly, then add the egg yolks, mixing until smooth.

3. Create the butter cream: In another bowl, beat the soft butter with the sugar until you get a smooth cream, and the sugar is no longer perceptible. This step is essential to ensure a light and airy texture for the cake.

4. Combine the ingredients: Add the chocolate cream to the butter mixture and continue mixing. Then, incorporate the flour, coconut flakes, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Mix well but gently, to avoid developing gluten.

5. Prepare the egg white foam: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add the 3 tablespoons of sugar and continue beating until you achieve a firm foam. This step will add volume and lightness to the cake.

6. Combine the foam with the mixture: Using a spatula, add the egg white foam to the chocolate mixture, gently folding from top to bottom. It is important to keep the air in the egg whites to achieve a fluffy texture.

7. Prepare the pan: Grease a round or bundt pan with a little soft butter. This will help the cake release easily after baking.

8. Bake: Pour the mixture into the pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is essential not to open the oven door in the first 25 minutes of baking to avoid affecting the rising process.

9. Prepare the glaze: While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, heat the sour cream until just about to boil. Add the chocolate and mix well until completely dissolved. Let it cool slightly to thicken.

10. Finish the cake: Once the cake is baked, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a platter. Pour the chocolate glaze over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Garnish with coconut flakes for a decorative touch.

Serving Suggestions
This delicious cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit sauce. A cup of coffee or a fragrant tea will complete the culinary experience. For an added touch of elegance, add a mint leaf on top!

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
Each serving of cake contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the portion size and exact ingredients used. Dark chocolate offers cardiovascular benefits, containing powerful antioxidants. Additionally, coconut is a good source of fiber, aiding digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
While it is possible, the taste will be sweeter and you won’t achieve the same depth of flavors.

- What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can try a Greek yogurt alternative to reduce calories and add a bit of acidity.

- How can I store the cake?
Wrap it in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days. Warm it slightly before serving to restore its fluffy texture.

- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
No, but you can experiment with flax eggs or mashed bananas to replace the eggs, and use coconut oil instead of butter.

With this German-style cake recipe, you will add a touch of refinement and flavor to your meals. Feel free to explore variations and add your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking and enjoy every moment!