Guguta's Hat Cake

Guguta's Hat Cake: A Storybook Delight

Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 10-12

Ready to bring the magic of stories into your kitchen? Today, we will prepare a special cake known as "Guguta's Hat", a dessert that will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of storytelling to your meal. Inspired by the legendary character Guguta, this cake is pyramid-shaped and filled with delicious flavors.

A Short Story

Guguta is a character from Spiridon Vangheli's tales, a symbol of childhood and cultural traditions. "Guguta's Hat" reflects not only a refined taste but also a deep connection with childhood memories, where every bite was an adventure. This dessert is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or simply to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 250 grams of butter or lard at room temperature
- 200 grams of sour cream
- 50 grams of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of brandy (for an extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda mixed with a little vinegar or lemon juice
- Approximately 500 grams of flour
- 700 grams of sour cherries in their own juice (or fresh, if you have them)

For the cream:
- 600 grams of whipped cream
- 100 grams of powdered sugar
- Grated chocolate for decoration

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Dough
- In a large bowl, add the soft butter and sugar. Mix well with a spatula or mixer until you achieve a homogeneous and fluffy mixture.
- Add the sour cream and brandy, continuing to mix. These ingredients will provide moisture and a fine aroma to the dough.
- In another bowl, combine the baking soda with vinegar or lemon juice and let it react. Add it to the butter and sour cream mixture.
- Start adding the flour gradually, mixing continuously until you obtain an elastic but soft dough, similar to tart dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This resting time will help firm up the dough, making it easier to shape.

2. Forming the Tubes
- After the dough has cooled, divide it in two, and roll out a piece on a lightly floured surface until you reach a thickness of 0.5 cm.
- Cut the dough into strips about 6-7 cm wide. On each strip, place a row of sour cherries (a few spaced apart).
- Fold the edges of each strip to form tubes, ensuring they are well sealed. Continue with the remaining dough.

3. Baking
- Place the formed tubes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C for 35 minutes or until they turn golden and slightly crispy. It's important to watch them, as baking time may vary.

4. Preparing the Cream
- In a bowl, whip the cream with powdered sugar until you achieve a firm consistency, but don't overdo it to avoid separation. This cream will add a velvety texture to your cake.

5. Assembling the Cake
- Once the tubes have completely cooled, start assembling them. Place a first layer of 5 tubes, add a layer of cream, then place 4 tubes on top and continue alternating the tubes and cream until you finish all the tubes.
- Finally, grate chocolate on top to add an elegant look and a decadent taste. Now, place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, so all the flavors blend perfectly and set.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Cherries: If you're using fresh cherries, make sure they are ripe but not too soft. Sour cherries in their own juice can save time and provide an intense flavor.
- Cream: You can experiment with different flavors in the cream, such as vanilla extract or almond essence, to customize the cake to your taste.
- Decoration: Instead of grated chocolate, you can use chopped nuts or coconut flakes for a different texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of fruit?
Of course! You can try cherries, peaches, or even apples. Make sure the fruits are well drained so as not to alter the texture of the dough.

- How long can the cake be kept?
Guguta's Hat Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is even more delicious the next day when the flavors have melded.

- What drinks pair well with this cake?
A strong coffee or a flavored tea pairs perfectly. If you enjoy wine, a sweet wine or sparkling wine would be excellent choices.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake contains nutritious ingredients, such as sour cream, which brings calcium and healthy fats, and sour cherries, rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Although it is a delicacy, moderation is key to enjoying its delicious taste without overindulging.

Conclusion

Guguta's Hat Cake is more than just a dessert; it is a journey into the world of stories, a combination of flavors, and a culinary experience that will delight both adults and children. Try this recipe and let your imagination soar, perhaps even adding your own personal touch. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this cake will surely become a favorite recipe in your family. Enjoy!