Snow White

Snow White Cake: A Sweet Delicacy with Delicate Layers and Velvety Cream

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes (3 layers)
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8-10

The "Snow White" cake is a dessert that has crossed generations, being a popular choice for festive meals and special occasions. This delightful recipe combines tender layers filled with a fine vanilla and lemon cream, resulting in a dessert that not only looks wonderful but also offers a delicious taste. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Ingredients

For the layers:

- 2 large eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 5 tablespoons oil (preferably sunflower or corn oil)
- 600-700 g flour (type 000 or 550)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of one lemon
- A pinch of salt

For the cream:

- 1 liter milk
- 6 tablespoons cornstarch
- 10 tablespoons sugar
- Juice of one lemon
- 200 g margarine (or butter for a richer flavor)

For decoration:

- Powdered sugar with vanilla flavor (optional)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Layers

1. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, add the eggs, sugar, vanilla sugar, and mix well until you achieve a fluffy foam. This step is crucial as the incorporated air will give the layers a light texture.

2. Add the wet ingredients: Include the oil, milk, baking powder mixed with lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Blend the mixture with a mixer.

3. Incorporating the flour: Stop the mixer and start adding the flour gradually, mixing by hand until you get a dough that does not stick to your hands. It should not be too hard but rather firm and slightly elastic.

4. Resting the dough: Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes. This step will help the dough become more pliable.

5. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into 3 equal parts. Each piece will become a thin layer.

6. Rolling out the layers: On the back of a baking tray lined with parchment paper and a little oil, roll out each piece of dough with a rolling pin, ensuring they are not too thin. The layers should not be baked too much, just until they acquire a light golden hue.

Step 2: Preparing the Cream

1. Preparing the milk: In a pot, bring almost 1 liter of milk to a boil, leaving a cup aside.

2. The cornstarch mixture: In a bowl, combine the cornstarch and sugar, then pour the cold milk into the mixture, whisking well to avoid lumps.

3. Thickening the cream: When the milk in the pot begins to boil, add the cornstarch and sugar mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumping. Let the cream boil until it thickens, then remove the pot from the heat.

4. Finalizing the cream: Add the lemon juice and margarine, stirring until completely melted. The cream should be smooth and velvety.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

1. The layer of dough: Place the first layer in a tray. Spread a portion of the warm cream (not hot!) over it.

2. Continuing the assembly: Add the second layer, then repeat the process with the cream. Finally, place the last layer on top.

3. Pressing the cake: Cover the last layer with a slightly damp towel and place a heavier wooden board on top. This will keep the cake compact and help bind the layers.

4. Resting: Let the cake cool at room temperature, then refrigerate overnight to firm up well.

Step 4: Serving

1. Decorating: The next day, dust the cake with powdered sugar flavored with vanilla. This will add an elegant look and an extra sweet taste.

2. Cutting: Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into equal portions. This way, you will achieve clean cuts, and each slice will look appealing.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The "Snow White" cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside for a temperature contrast.

Delicious Variations

- Adding fruits: You can incorporate pieces of fresh fruit (for example, strawberries or peaches) into the vanilla cream for a fresher taste.
- Chocolate cream: Replace some of the cornstarch with cocoa powder for a delicious chocolate cream, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- Flavoring: Experiment with other flavors, such as almonds or oranges, to add a distinctive note.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake contains ingredients that can provide valuable nutrients. Milk is a good source of calcium, and eggs provide essential proteins and vitamins. Additionally, lemon adds vitamin C and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace margarine with butter?
Yes, for a richer taste, you can use butter instead of margarine.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or opt for brown sugar, which has a less sweet and more complex flavor.

3. What type of flour is best for the layers?
Flour type 000 or 550 is ideal for achieving tender and light layers.

4. Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to let it come to room temperature before consuming it, to preserve its fine texture.

The "Snow White" cake is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that combines tradition with innovation. This simple and quick recipe will surely delight everyone at any festive table. So, prepare your ingredients and enjoy a cake that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones! Enjoy!