Pet Cake

Mascot Cake: A Nostalgic Childhood Delight

The Mascot Cake is a dessert that evokes pleasant childhood memories, filled with flavor and sweetness. With fluffy layers and a decadent chocolate cream, this cake is sure to bring a smile to anyone's face. Whether it's for a birthday, a celebration, or simply a sweet craving, this cake will undoubtedly be the star of the table!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

Layer 1:
- 3 eggs
- 60 ml water
- 150 g sugar
- 200 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 50 g cocoa powder
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

Layer 2:
- 3 eggs
- 60 ml water
- 150 g sugar
- 200 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 50 g dark chocolate
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

Cream:
- 200 g butter
- 75 g cocoa powder
- 4 eggs
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons rum essence
- Zest of one orange

Syrup (optional):
- 100 ml cherry or sour cherry liqueur

Glaze:
- 100 g dark chocolate
- 100 g milk chocolate
- 100 ml heavy cream
- 50 g butter

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing Layer 1
In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy, then gradually add half of the sugar (75 g) while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, mix the yolks with the remaining sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture is light in color. Gradually add the warm water while mixing to incorporate air.

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder, then gently fold this mixture into the yolk mixture. Finally, carefully fold in the whipped egg whites using circular motions to retain the air. Pour the mixture into a baking pan lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness using a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the layer is ready. Let it cool on a wire rack.

2. Preparing Layer 2
Follow the same procedure as for the first layer, with the note that at the end, add the grated dark chocolate. This will add a deep flavor and intense chocolate taste. Bake it just like the first layer.

3. Preparing the Cream
Over a double boiler, whisk the eggs with half of the sugar (4 tablespoons) for about 5 minutes until thickened and the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cool. In another bowl, beat the room temperature butter with the other half of the sugar (4 tablespoons), cocoa powder, rum essence, and orange zest. Gradually add the egg mixture, mixing well until you achieve a smooth and airy cream.

4. Assembling the Cake
Once the layers have completely cooled, trim the tops of the layers to level them. Place the first layer on a serving platter and soak it with 50 ml of liqueur (if using). Add a generous layer of cream and place the second layer on top. Soak it similarly and spread the remaining cream evenly and smoothly over the entire surface of the cake.

5. Preparing the Glaze
In a saucepan, combine all the glaze ingredients: dark chocolate, milk chocolate, heavy cream, and butter. Heat over low heat or in a double boiler, stirring constantly until completely melted and you achieve a uniform mixture. Pour the warm glaze over the cake and let it cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

6. Decorating the Cake
Crumble the tops of the layers (that you cut off) and mix with a bit of the remaining cream to form a paste. Shape small balls from this paste and dip them in the glaze. Place them on a tray and let them chill. Once the cake has set, decorate it with the chocolate balls. You can also use chocolate curls or other favorite decorations to give it a personal touch.

Helpful Tips
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a uniform mixture.
- You can replace the liqueur with fruit syrup or plain water if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- The Mascot Cake is delicious the next day when the flavors have had time to meld, so it's ideal to prepare it a day in advance.

Nutritional Information
Each serving of Mascot Cake contains approximately:
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Protein: 6 g

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute the eggs? You can use a commercial egg substitute or banana puree to make the cake vegan.
2. What other flavors can I use in the cream? You can experiment with vanilla, almond essence, or even coffee to vary the flavor.
3. How can I make the cake less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by 20-30%.

Delicious Pairings
The Mascot Cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a berry sauce. Additionally, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea will complement this decadent dessert perfectly.

Personal Note
The Mascot Cake is a recipe that reminds me of warm summer days spent with loved ones, savoring each slice with joy. Every bite brings a touch of nostalgia and happiness! So, don’t hesitate to make it and share this delight with everyone around you!