Simple cake

Simple Cake: A Delight That's Easy to Make

Total time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12

Overview:
The simple cake is a classic dessert that combines simplicity with delicious flavor. This recipe is perfect for those who want to quickly prepare a treat that will impress family or friends. With a mix of accessible ingredients and an easy preparation process, this cake quickly becomes a favorite in any household.

The history of simple cakes is tied to the tradition of home cooking, when housewives sought quick and efficient ways to create delicious desserts with available ingredients. Thus, this cake becomes not just a treat, but also a reminder of times when recipes were passed down through generations.

Ingredients:

- 6 fresh eggs
- 24 tablespoons of sugar
- 24 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or canola)
- 200 ml of water (at room temperature)
- Flour (as needed, approximately 300-400g)
- 2 packets of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of vinegar (to activate the baking powder)
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 2-4 tablespoons of cocoa (for an intense chocolate flavor)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by gathering all necessary ingredients. Make sure the eggs are fresh, as they will influence the cake's texture. It is recommended to take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature, which will help achieve a homogeneous batter.

2. Beating the eggs:
In a large bowl, beat the 6 eggs with a whisk or mixer on medium speed until frothy and doubled in volume. Gradually add the salt and sugar, continuing to mix until the sugar is completely dissolved. This is the stage where the cake will acquire an airy texture.

3. Adding oil and water:
Incorporate the oil and water. Mix the composition well, ensuring that the ingredients are fully integrated. The oil will add moisture, while the water will help achieve a lighter consistency.

4. Incorporating flour:
Start adding the flour gradually, using a spatula or wooden spoon. It is important to add the flour "in the rain" to avoid lumps. The batter should be slightly thicker than pancake batter but not so thick that it cannot be poured. The basic rule is that the batter should be soft but hold on the spoon.

5. Activating the baking powder:
Activate the 2 packets of baking powder with a teaspoon of vinegar. This step will initiate the chemical reaction that will help the cake rise. Mix well to evenly distribute the baking powder in the batter.

6. Adding cocoa (optional):
If you want a chocolate-flavored cake, this is the time to incorporate the cocoa. Gently mix until the cocoa is fully integrated and the batter takes on a brown hue.

7. Baking the cake:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking pan with a little oil or butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the pan and level the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

8. Cooling and serving:
After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, after which you can transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look or cut it into squares and serve with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Practical tips:
- Customization: You can add berries, nuts, or chopped chocolate to the batter for a different flavor.
- Storage: The cake keeps well sealed in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for a week.
- Oven care: Make sure the oven is well preheated before placing the cake in to avoid uneven baking.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake, while simple, offers a moderate caloric intake due to its ingredients. Eggs are an excellent source of protein, sugar provides quick energy, and oil brings essential fatty acids. If you opt for cocoa, you will also add antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of oil? Yes, you can use olive oil for a more intense flavor, but make sure it is of good quality.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? You can reduce the sugar by 25% without significantly affecting the texture.

Associated recipes:
This simple cake pairs perfectly with herbal tea or flavored coffee. You can experiment with fruit sauces or vanilla ice cream for a more sophisticated dessert.

Personal note:
I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who made a similar cake. Every time I prepare it, I feel like I’ve brought a piece of those memories into my home. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as I do!

This simple cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a cooking experience that will bring smiles and unforgettable moments. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s enjoy the magic of cooking together!