Poppy seed dessert with vanilla and hazelnuts

Chocolate Sponge Cake with Delicious Creams

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines rich chocolate with delicate flavors of vanilla and coffee? This chocolate sponge cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to festive meals. It's a versatile recipe that allows you to explore various flavor combinations, and the final result is sure to please everyone.

Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 20

Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 200 g butter or margarine
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 5 eggs
- 1 pinch of salt
- 8 squares of dark chocolate (minimum 52% cocoa)
- 50 g chopped unsalted nuts
- 7 tablespoons flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder

For the syrup:
- 200 ml water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate glaze:
- 80 g confectionery chocolate (minimum 52% cocoa)
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 50 g butter

For the vanilla cream:
- 1 egg yolk
- 150 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon Bourbon vanilla sugar
- 50 g butter

For the coffee cream:
- 1 egg yolk
- 150 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee (recommended Jacobs Velvet)
- 50 g butter
- 1 tablespoon whipped cream (beaten)

For decoration:
- A few strawberries
- 200 ml heavy cream
- A little dark chocolate for shaving
- Finely chopped unsalted nuts

A Bit of History

The sponge cake is a classic dessert that has gained popularity worldwide due to its light texture and versatility. Sponge cake has deep roots in pastry traditions, and the addition of chocolate and flavored creams adds a touch of elegance, transforming this simple dessert into a refined delicacy.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the sponge:
- Start by melting the dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, being careful not to burn it. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter with the sugar until it becomes a fluffy cream. It's essential that the butter is at room temperature to achieve an airy texture.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. A pinch of salt will help enhance the flavors.
- Incorporate the melted chocolate, ensuring it's only warm to avoid cooking the eggs. Add the chopped nuts.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Sift the mixture over the wet ingredients and gently fold with a spatula to maintain the airiness of the batter.

2. Baking:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour in the sponge mixture. Level the surface and place the tray in a preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat) for 30 minutes.
- After baking, let the sponge cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Preparing the syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine the water with the sugar and bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, then add the vanilla extract. Let it cool.

4. Preparing the chocolate glaze:
- Melt the chocolate together with the heavy cream and butter, stirring until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. This will be the glaze that adds flavor to the cake.

5. Preparing the creams:
- Vanilla cream: In a bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar and flour. Add the warm milk, stirring continuously. Place the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. Once thickened, add the butter and mix well.
- Coffee cream: Follow the same procedure as for the vanilla cream, adding the instant coffee and beaten cream for an airy texture.

6. Decorating the cake:
- Cut the sponge into squares, then lightly drizzle each piece with the vanilla syrup, being careful not to soak them too much.
- Divide the cakes into three groups and cover one part with the chocolate glaze, another with the coffee cream, and the last with the vanilla cream. Decorate with whipped cream, chopped nuts, and strawberry slices arranged like flowers for a stunning appearance.

7. Cooling:
- Place the decorated cakes in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the glaze to set and the flavors to meld.

Practical Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature; this will help achieve a more uniform texture.
- For an even more intense flavor, use chocolate with a higher cocoa content.
- Substitute nuts with walnuts or almonds for a different texture and flavor.
- If you want to add a little extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of espresso to the vanilla syrup.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the result will differ in flavor and color. Choose a high-quality chocolate for the best results.

2. How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
You can reduce the amount of sugar and butter, replacing some ingredients with light or sugar-free alternatives. Additionally, using a natural sweetener can be an option.

3. What drinks pair well with this cake?
A cup of coffee or black tea pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake. Additionally, a glass of sweet wine or coffee liqueur can add an elegant touch.

So, get ready to enjoy this delicious cake! Whether you make it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, each bite will be an explosion of flavors. Enjoy!