Margareta Cake

Margareta Cake – A Delicacy with Coffee and Walnut Flavor

When it comes to celebrations, choosing the perfect dessert can be quite a challenge. Often, we find ourselves facing a dilemma: which cake should we choose? In my recipe notebook, filled with handwritten pages and notes, I discovered a simple yet unique recipe: Margareta Cake. This cake combines the intense flavor of coffee with the rich taste of walnuts, resulting in a dessert that will impress any guest. Let’s explore together how to prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 8 egg whites
- 6 egg yolks
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 1/2 packet of baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 4 tablespoons of ground walnuts

For the syrup:
- 100 ml water
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- Rum essence

For the cream:
- 1 and a half packets of butter (about 375 g)
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 3 teaspoons of instant coffee
- 3 tablespoons of ground coffee
- 150 g chopped walnuts

The History of Margareta Cake

This cake has an interesting history, as it is a dessert that has brought families and friends together around the table over the years. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but the combination of walnut and coffee has become a favorite in many households. It is a dessert that evokes pleasant memories and brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite.

Preparing Margareta Cake

1. Preparing the Base

Start by preparing your ingredients. Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature, as they will whip much better. In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the egg whites with 6 tablespoons of sugar until you achieve a firm foam that forms a peak when you lift the mixer blades. It’s important not to rush this step, as the air incorporated into the egg whites will ensure a fluffy base.

In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with 2 tablespoons of sugar, vanilla sugar, ground walnuts, and flour mixed with baking powder. When mixing, it’s best to use a spatula or wooden spoon and fold in the ingredients to keep the air in the egg whites.

Once you have a homogeneous mixture, pour the batter into a greased and floured baking pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to test the base with a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the base is ready!

2. Preparing the Syrup

While the base is baking, you can prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, add 100 ml of water, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a few drops of rum essence. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. This syrup will add a pleasant moisture to the cake, enhancing the flavors.

Once the base is baked, remove it from the oven and, while it’s still warm, evenly soak it with the prepared syrup. Allow it to cool completely.

3. Preparing the Cream

For the cream, start with the butter at room temperature, which you will beat together with the powdered sugar until creamy and airy. Add the 2 egg yolks, mixing well after each addition. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and tasty cream.

In a non-stick skillet, lightly toast the chopped walnuts without oil for a few minutes until golden. Let them cool, then add them to the butter cream along with the instant coffee and ground coffee. If you notice that the cream looks slightly "curdled," don’t worry! This is normal due to the water content in the butter and will disappear after the cake has been refrigerated.

4. Assembling the Cake

Spread the cream evenly over the soaked and cooled base, then grate some chocolate on top for added flavor and an appealing look. Cover the cake with aluminum foil and refrigerate for a few hours; ideally, leave it overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and the cream to set.

5. Serving

Once the cake has set, you can cut it into portions and serve. It is delicious alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a fragrant tea.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Cake

- Use fresh ingredients, especially the butter and walnuts, for a more intense flavor.
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can try replacing the rum essence with almond or orange essence.
- Make sure the base is completely cooled before adding the cream to prevent it from melting.
- You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, to vary the texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of sweetener?
Yes, you can use maple syrup or honey as healthier alternatives to regular sugar.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or add more coffee to balance the sweetness.

3. How long does the cake last?
Margareta Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days, kept in an airtight container.

Margareta Cake is an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday or a simple gathering with friends. Its rich flavor and fluffy texture make it a true favorite for everyone. Give it a try and let yourself be carried away by its delicious aromas! Enjoy!