Pseudo Amandine

Pseudoclassic Amandine – a lighter cake, full of flavor and texture, perfect for moments when you want to indulge without feeling guilty. This recipe is a reinterpretation of the traditional cake, featuring a fluffy base enriched with poppy seeds and topped with a delicious chocolate glaze. Let's see how we can prepare it step by step, enjoying each stage of the process.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 50-55 minutes
- Number of servings: 9-12 servings

Ingredients
For the base:
- 2 large eggs (preferably fresh and from free-range hens)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for a more caramelized flavor)
- 1 tablespoon oil (sunflower oil or coconut oil is ideal)
- 4 tablespoons poppy seeds (make sure they are fresh for an intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons yogurt (Greek yogurt will add a pleasant creaminess)

For the glaze:
- 30 g dark chocolate (choose chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a rich taste)
- 1 tablespoon liquid cream (you can use natural cream for a better flavor)

For decoration:
- 100 ml whipped cream (to create a creamy contrast with the chocolate)

Step by step

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential for achieving an even and well-baked base. Make sure the temperature is set correctly, as an oven that is too hot can burn the cake.

2. Preparing the batter: In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until frothy. Gradually add the brown sugar and continue mixing until you obtain a glossy and firm meringue. This stage is crucial for giving the cake an airy texture.

3. Mixing the wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the oil and yogurt. Make sure the ingredients are well combined. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to the base.

4. Combining the mixtures: Carefully pour the yolk mixture over the beaten egg whites. Use a spatula and gently fold the ingredients together with an up-and-down motion to avoid losing air from the meringue. Finally, add the poppy seeds and mix gently.

5. Baking the base: Line a square baking dish (20x20 cm) with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the dish.

6. Preparing the glaze: In a heatproof bowl, place the chopped chocolate and liquid cream. Set the bowl over a steam bath (or in a pot of hot water) and stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and homogenized. This glaze will add shine and an intense chocolate flavor to your cake.

7. Assembling the cake: Once the base has cooled, cut it into squares or rectangles. Pour the chocolate glaze over each piece, ensuring it is evenly covered. Finally, decorate with whipped cream on top.

Chef's tip
To add an extra flavor, you can add a drop of vanilla extract to the batter or sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the glaze before adding the cream. This will provide a crunchy texture and a subtle flavor.

Nutritional benefits
This cake has a relatively low calorie content, thanks to the use of yogurt instead of butter and a reduced amount of sugar. The poppy seeds provide a good source of calcium, fiber, and antioxidants, positively contributing to your daily diet.

Frequently asked questions
Can I replace poppy seeds with another ingredient?
Yes, you can use chopped nuts or coconut flakes for a different variation.

How can I store the cake?
It keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. The glaze will remain soft and delicious.

Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cake without the glaze. Once thawed, add the glaze and cream to restore its freshness.

Serving
This cake is perfect to be served alongside a cup of fragrant tea or fresh coffee. You can opt for a cold drink, such as freshly squeezed citrus juice, to contrast with the sweetness of the cake.

Possible variations
For an exotic touch, you can add grated lemon or orange zest to the batter, which will provide a fresh aroma. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate for the glaze, such as white chocolate or even milk chocolate, depending on your preferences.

This Pseudo Amandine cake is a wonderful choice, not only for moments of indulgence but also for special occasions or gatherings with friends. With a light texture and unmistakable taste, it will surely become a favorite among your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!