Lace

Dantelata – Chocolate and Whipped Cream Cake

Dantelata is a cake that masterfully combines a fluffy chocolate base, a delicious cream filling, and a fine whipped cream decoration. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to gatherings with friends, and it is sure to leave an unforgettable impression. I will walk you through each step, and by the end, you will have a cake worthy of a true pastry master.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 9 eggs
- 300 g all-purpose flour
- 200 g white sugar
- 1 vial vanilla essence (Dr. Oetker)

For the syrup:
- Juice from fruit compote (quince or pear, or any other fruit you prefer)

For the cream:
- 1 packet chocolate cream with truffles and rum (Dr. Oetker)
- 1 tablespoon Hulala whipped cream
- 250 ml cold milk
- 2 tablespoons ground walnuts

For decoration:
- 1 small box of Hulala whipped cream
- 1 bar of Primola Silk dark chocolate
- Whole walnuts

The Story of Dantelata

Dantelata has its roots in the tradition of baking chocolate cakes, but it adds a unique touch with the incorporation of whipped cream and the delicate texture of walnuts. This cake stands out not only for its taste but also for its elegant appearance, making it perfect for gifting.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Base
- Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar and vanilla essence on high speed for about 10 minutes. You want to achieve a fluffy mixture with a vibrant yellow color that doubles in volume.
- Once the mixture is ready, gently add the sifted flour, carefully folding it in with a spatula to avoid losing the air incorporated. This is key to achieving a fluffy base.

2. Baking the Base
- Grease a baking pan with butter and pour the batter into it, ensuring it is distributed evenly.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Do not open the oven door during the first 15 minutes to allow the base to rise evenly.
- Check for doneness using a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the base is ready. Let it cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracking.

3. Preparing the Syrup
- After the base has cooled, cut it into two equal halves. The syrup will add moisture and extra flavor, so generously soak it with the fruit compote juice.

4. Preparing the Chocolate Cream
- In a bowl, combine the chocolate cream with truffles and rum with the cold milk. Mix until you achieve a creamy and smooth texture.
- Add the ground walnuts and a tablespoon of whipped cream, gently folding with a spatula. This will add extra texture and a refined taste.

5. Assembling the Cake
- Place the first half of the base on a serving platter, add a generous layer of chocolate cream, then place the other half of the base on top.
- Now, cover the entire cake with whipped cream, using a knife or spatula to spread it evenly.

6. Decorating the Cake
- Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler and create curls on a piece of parchment paper. Let them cool and harden. Place them on top of the cake for an elegant look.
- Finish with a few whole walnuts for added flavor and decoration.

Serving Suggestions

Dantelata is perfect when served alongside a fragrant coffee or a fruit tea. For an even more decadent experience, try it with a vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Tips and Tricks

- Use high-quality ingredients, especially chocolate, to enhance the final taste of the cake.
- You can substitute the walnuts with other nuts or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.
- Experiment with different types of syrups, such as berry syrups, to add a fresh twist.

Nutritional Benefits

Dantelata is a cake that, while indulgent, can offer benefits through its natural ingredients. Nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, while dark chocolate contains beneficial flavonoids for health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture of the cake may be different.

2. How long does Dantelata last?
It is recommended to consume it within 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator.

3. Can it be frozen?
Yes, the base can be frozen before being filled, but avoid freezing the finished cake with whipped cream.

This Dantelata recipe will make you the star of any party! With every bite, you'll bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, put on your apron, and let’s enjoy cooking!