Good Cake

Dobra Cake – A Holiday Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12-16

Dobra Cake is a family recipe passed down through generations, becoming a symbol of holidays and moments spent with loved ones. With a soft cocoa base and a fine cream, this cake is perfect for bringing smiles to your guests' faces. What makes this recipe truly special is that the layers are not soaked, maintaining their original texture and flavor. Let's embark on the adventure of preparing this delicacy together!

Ingredients

*For the cocoa layers:*
- 125 g butter or margarine (half a package)
- 200 g sugar (about 1 cup)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- 2 teaspoons ammonia dissolved in warm water
- 240 ml water (about 1 cup)
- Flour as needed (approximately 250-300 g)

*For the middle layer:*
- 6 eggs
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons flour

*For the cream:*
- 1 liter milk
- 300 g sugar (1 and a half cups)
- 10 tablespoons flour
- 125 g butter or margarine (1 package)
- Rum essence (to taste)
- 100 g coconut (optional)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Cocoa Layers
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with the sugar until it becomes a creamy mixture. Add the cocoa and the ammonia dissolved in warm water, mixing well.
- Start incorporating the flour gradually until you obtain a homogeneous mixture, but do not stop until it becomes a fine paste. If necessary, add water gradually to adjust the consistency.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts and pour each part into a baking tray lined with parchment paper, greased with a little oil. Bake at 180°C for 10-15 minutes, until the layers are well baked but not dry. Let them cool completely.

2. Preparing the Middle Layer
- Beat the egg whites until foamy, gradually adding the sugar until you obtain a firm and shiny foam. Add the egg yolks, mixing gently until combined, then carefully incorporate the flour to avoid lumps.
- Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes at 180°C. Let it cool.

3. Preparing the Cream
- In a saucepan, bring the milk and sugar to a boil. When it starts boiling, add the flour in a rain, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the cream on low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Turn off the heat and add the butter or margarine, stirring until completely melted. Finally, add the rum essence and coconut, mixing well. Let the cream cool.

4. Assembling the Cake
- Place the first cocoa layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of cream over its surface. Then add the middle layer, followed by another layer of cream, and finally place the second cocoa layer on top.
- Sprinkle two packets of vanilla sugar on top and let the cake chill in the fridge to set. Ideally, wait until the next day to cut it, as the layers will soften due to the cream.

Practical Tips
- Flour: Use high-quality flour to achieve a fine texture for the cake. You can also opt for whole grain flour for a more rustic taste.
- Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor.
- Rum essence: This adds a subtle vanilla note, but you can also use vanilla or lemon essence, depending on your preferences.
- Storage: Dobra Cake keeps well in the fridge, covered, for several days. It may even become better as it sits, as the flavors meld.

Delicious Combinations
To complement this wonderful cake, I recommend serving it alongside a cup of aromatic coffee or fruit tea to balance the sweetness. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce can add an extra indulgence.

Nutritional Benefits
Dobra Cake, while delicious, is a calorie-rich option due to its sugar and fat content. However, when consumed in moderation, it can bring joy and comfort during festive moments. The cocoa layers contain antioxidants, and the milk cream provides essential proteins and calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of sweetener? Yes, you can use natural or artificial sweeteners, but be sure to adjust the quantities accordingly.
- Is it possible to add fruits to the cream? You can add pieces of fresh or dried fruits for an extra texture and flavor.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? Reduce the sugar amount in the cream and layers, and use quality cocoa that adds a bitter note.

Personal Note
For me, Dobra Cake is not just a recipe, but a vivid memory of childhood, of moments spent around the table with family. Each slice brings the warmth and joy of holidays, and its aroma fills my heart with nostalgia. I encourage you to add your personal touch to this cake, perhaps by using specific ingredients that are dear to you or by sharing the recipe with loved ones.

I wish you happy cooking and unforgettable moments in the company of this wonderful cake!