Great Heart Cake Recipe

Cake "Great Heart" - A Delicacy Full of Emotion

Who wouldn't want a cake that impresses with its taste and appearance? The "Great Heart" cake is the perfect choice to celebrate special moments or simply to indulge your taste buds. With a moist and aromatic base, filled with a fine cream cheese and whipped cream, this cake will not only catch the eye but will also leave a sweet memory on the lips of those who savor it. Let's embark together on the preparation of this quick and simple yet extraordinary dessert!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 2 hours (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the base:
- 200 g sugar
- 300 g flour
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons cocoa
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the syrup:
- 100 ml water
- 100 g sugar

For the cream:
- 250 g cream cheese (Philadelphia type)
- 250 ml liquid cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/4 orange, diced

For decoration:
- a few After Eight sticks

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the base
Start by preparing the cake base. Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. This step is essential for achieving a light and airy base, so take your time!

In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and light yellow. Here you can add a personal touch by mixing in a splash of vanilla essence, if you like.

Step 2: Combining the ingredients
Add the egg white mixture to the yolk mixture, gently folding with a spatula to keep the air in the mixture. In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, and baking powder. Sift these dry ingredients to avoid lumps. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, gently mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Baking the bases
Prepare a cake pan (preferably with a removable bottom) by lining it with baking paper or greasing it with oil and dusting with flour. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check if it's done by inserting a toothpick in the center of the base; if it comes out clean, the base is perfect!

Step 4: Cooling the bases
After baking, let the base cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. Once cooled, carefully cut it into two equal parts, preparing for syruping.

Step 5: Preparing the syrup
To make the syrup, combine the water and sugar in a saucepan and place over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture begins to boil. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool. This will provide moisture to the bases, making them even more delicious.

Step 6: Making the cream
In a bowl, whip the liquid cream until it thickens. Make sure the bowl and cream are well chilled to achieve perfect consistency. In another bowl, mix the cream cheese with the powdered sugar until creamy. Gently fold in part of the whipped cream into the cream cheese, then add the diced orange.

Step 7: Assembling the cake
On a platter, place the first half of the base. Generously syrup it with the prepared syrup, then spread half of the cream cheese mixture. Place the other half of the base on top and syrup it again.

Step 8: Decorating the cake
On the top of the cake, add a few tablespoons of the cream cheese mixed with cocoa and decorate the edges with whipped cream. Garnish with After Eight sticks, cut in half, which will add an elegant touch and a mint flavor, perfect for contrasting with the sweetness of the cake.

Step 9: Final cooling
Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for a few hours; ideally, leave it overnight. This waiting time will help the flavors develop and blend perfectly.

Practical tips:
- You can replace the cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer flavor.
- If you don't have After Eight sticks, you can use grated dark chocolate or chocolate chips for decoration.
- The cake pairs excellently with a cup of coffee or flavored tea, providing a perfect contrast between the cake's sweetness and the drink's bitterness.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 380 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I keep the cake fresh longer?
You can store the cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, to prevent it from drying out.

2. Can I use other fruits instead of orange?
Of course! Berries or peaches are excellent alternatives that add a touch of acidity and freshness.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
For a vegan version, you can use an egg substitute and plant-based whipped cream, but the result will differ slightly in texture and flavor.

The "Great Heart" cake is not just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will bring joy and smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cake will surely become a favorite recipe in your family. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Bon appétit!