Mint and cocoa cake

Mint and Cocoa Cake - a recipe that combines the sweetness of chocolate with the refreshing taste of mint, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Inspired by a classic recipe, I decided to add a personal touch, transforming a simple cake into a refined dessert, perfect for any occasion. This cake is not only delicious but also a true work of art on the plate, thanks to its vibrant colors.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients

- 5 large, fresh eggs
- 1 cup of sugar
- 5 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 7 heaping tablespoons of flour
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 packet of baking powder (approx. 7 g)
- 2 tablespoons of dark cocoa (for an intense flavor)
- 5-10 drops of mint essence (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence
- Green food coloring (optional, for an attractive appearance)

Utensils

- Loaf pan (approximately 25x10 cm)
- Baking paper
- Mixer
- Mixing bowls

Preparation

1. Separating the eggs
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential to have a clean bowl for the egg whites, so they can be beaten properly into a foam. Make sure no yolk gets into the egg whites, otherwise they won't whip well.

2. Beating the egg whites
Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and start beating them with a mixer on medium speed. When the egg whites start to become frothy, gradually add the sugar. Continue beating until you achieve a firm, glossy foam, similar to meringue.

3. Preparing the yolk cream
In another bowl, whisk the yolks with the oil until they become a smooth cream. Add the vanilla essence and mix well.

4. Combining the mixtures
Begin to gradually add the yolk cream to the egg white foam, using a spatula to avoid losing air in the mixture. Sifting the flour together with the baking powder is essential to avoid lumps, so I recommend adding them gradually, mixing gently.

5. Preparing the cocoa and mint mixtures
Divide the mixture into two bowls. In one, add the cocoa and mix well. In the other bowl, add a few drops of mint essence and, optionally, the green coloring, mixing until well combined.

6. Preparing the pan
Line the loaf pan with baking paper, ensuring it is well secured.

7. Assembling the cake
Alternately spread the cocoa and mint mixtures in the pan, using a fork to create a marbled pattern. This step is important, as it will determine the final appearance of the cake.

8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 160°C. Place the pan in the oven and let it bake for about 40 minutes. It is recommended to do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

9. Cooling and serving
After the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can dust it with vanilla sugar or glaze it with melted chocolate for an extra touch of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This mint and cocoa cake can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. Additionally, a cup of coffee or green tea will perfectly complement this delicacy.

Variations

To add a personal touch, you can try replacing the mint essence with orange or lemon essence. Additionally, adding chopped nuts or chocolate pieces can provide an interesting texture.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is a good source of protein due to the eggs and can provide an energy boost thanks to the sugar. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants, and mint adds a refreshing note and can aid digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, but the texture of the cake will be different, denser. You can combine whole wheat flour with white flour for a balanced result.

- What can I do if I don't have food coloring?
You can omit it or use spirulina powder or beet powder to achieve a natural hue.

- How can I keep the cake fresh?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

This mint and cocoa cake is not just a recipe but a colorful and flavorful cooking experience. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, I am sure it will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!