Joffre Cake

Joffre Cake: A Chocolate Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 10-12

Introduction

Do you dream of a dessert that is both elegant and delicious? I invite you to discover the Joffre Cake, a chocolate cake that combines the fine texture of cocoa cream with a fluffy base, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe has been lovingly passed down by my mother-in-law, Ani, and I am excited to share all the necessary details for you to prepare it.

The history of the Joffre cake is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary tradition, where chocolate desserts were often associated with celebrations and special occasions. What makes this cake so special is the perfect combination of chocolate and a velvety texture that will captivate you from the very first bite.

Necessary Ingredients

To prepare this delicious cake, here’s what you need:

- 250 g soft butter (ideally with 82% fat)
- 6 eggs
- 250 g powdered sugar
- 50 g cocoa (plus 2 tablespoons for decoration)
- 100 g sugar
- 5 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- White chocolate shapes for decoration

Practical suggestions for ingredients:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature to mix easily with the sugar.
- Using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar will provide a finer texture to the cream.
- Choose high-quality cocoa, as the intense chocolate flavor makes a difference.

Step by step in preparing the Joffre cake

1. Preparing the base:
- In a saucepan, mix the cocoa powder well with the granulated sugar. Then add the 5 tablespoons of water and place the saucepan over steam. This process will help melt the sugar and achieve a homogeneous composition.
- Keep the saucepan over steam until the sugar is completely melted, then set aside and let the mixture cool.

2. Creating the cream:
- In a large bowl, mix the soft butter with the powdered sugar until you achieve a fluffy and airy cream. It is essential to mix well to incorporate air, which will make the cake fluffier.
- Add one egg yolk at a time, mixing well after each. This will enhance the cream's texture.
- Once all the yolks are incorporated, gradually add the cooled cocoa mixture and continue mixing until homogeneous.

3. Preparing the base composition:
- Divide the cream obtained into two equal parts. Place one part in the refrigerator to cool.
- In the other half, add the 2 tablespoons of flour and the beaten egg whites. Gently mix with a spoon, being careful not to deflate the egg whites. Do this with gentle up-and-down motions.

4. Baking the bases:
- Prepare a round cake pan with a diameter of 22 cm, lining it with baking paper.
- Pour the composition into the pan and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes. For the first 15 minutes, do not open the oven door to prevent the base from sinking.
- After 30 minutes, check if the base is baked using the toothpick test. If it comes out clean, the base is ready.

5. Assembling the cake:
- Let the base cool in the pan, then remove it and cut it into two equal parts.
- Between the two bases, place a portion of the cream you saved in the refrigerator, and with the remaining cream, spread it over the entire surface of the cake.
- For an elegant decoration, dust the top with the 2 tablespoons of cocoa using a small stainless-steel strainer.
- Arrange the white chocolate shapes on top for an extra touch of refinement.

6. Serving:
- The Joffre Cake is served with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea, which will highlight the intense chocolate flavor. You can also add vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast.

Tips & Tricks

- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can add some chopped nuts or berries between the layers.
- If you prefer an even more decadent cake, replace some tablespoons of water with chocolate liqueur.
- Make sure the cake is well chilled before serving to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

Nutritional Benefits

The Joffre Cake, although delicious, is an indulgent dessert. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, due to rich ingredients like butter and sugar. However, cocoa brings nutritional benefits, being rich in antioxidants that can have positive effects on cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use chocolate instead of cocoa?
- Yes, you can melt dark chocolate instead of cocoa for a more intense flavor.

2. How can I keep the cake fresh longer?
- Store it in the refrigerator, covered, and you can consume it for 3-4 days.

3. Is it possible to make the recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, you can replace the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

This Joffre Cake, with its fluffy texture and delicious cocoa cream, will make you come back for more. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this dessert will surely become a family favorite! Enjoy!