Spider web cake with pineapple

Spider Web Cake with Pineapple

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 10

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a spectacular cake that will bring a smile to everyone's face. This is the Spider Web Cake with Pineapple, a delicious combination of chocolate, vanilla, and fruit, perfect for any occasion. It is a recipe that blends the intense flavor of chocolate with the freshness of pineapple, and its unique decoration makes it truly special.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Spider web cakes are a tradition in many cultures, often made for festive events. The spider web decoration is not only aesthetic but also a way to add an element of surprise and creativity. Combining chocolate with pineapple is an inspired choice, as the pineapple adds a tropical note and a perfect contrast to the sweetness of chocolate.

Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 6 eggs
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 6 tablespoons of oil
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder

For the white cream:
- 200 ml of liquid cream
- 150 g of white chocolate
- 10 g of gelatin
- Pineapple pieces (from compote or fresh, depending on preference)

For the chocolate glaze:
- 100 ml of liquid cream
- 100 g of dark cooking chocolate

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the sponge

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is important that the bowls are completely clean and dry to achieve a perfect meringue.

2. Beating the egg whites: In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a glossy, firm meringue.

3. Preparing the yolks: In another bowl, whisk the yolks with the oil until they reach a creamy consistency, similar to mayonnaise.

4. Combining the ingredients: Pour the yolk mixture into the egg white meringue in a thin stream, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air from the meringue.

5. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the flour, cocoa, and baking powder over the egg mixture and carefully fold them in using gentle up-and-down motions.

6. Baking the sponge: Prepare a round baking pan (about 24 cm in diameter), greased with butter and dusted with flour. Pour the batter into the pan and bake at 180°C for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely before cutting.

Step 2: Preparing the white cream

1. Heating the cream: In a saucepan, heat the liquid cream over low heat. Stir gently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

2. Adding the chocolate: When the cream begins to warm, add the finely chopped white chocolate. Stir constantly until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture becomes homogeneous.

3. Preparing the gelatin: Prepare the gelatin according to the instructions on the package. Generally, it is hydrated in cold water for a few minutes, then dissolved in the warm cream.

4. Incorporating the gelatin: Add the dissolved gelatin to the white chocolate cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

5. Adding the pineapple: Finally, add the pineapple pieces to the white cream and gently mix.

Step 3: Preparing the chocolate glaze

1. Heating the cream: As with the cream, place the liquid cream in a saucepan over low heat.

2. Melting the chocolate: Add the finely chopped dark chocolate to the warmed cream. Stir constantly until it melts completely and you obtain a smooth glaze.

3. Cooling the glaze: Let the glaze cool slightly to thicken.

Step 4: Assembling the cake

1. Cutting the sponge: Once the sponge has cooled, cut it into three equal circles. It is ideal to use a sharp knife to achieve clean cuts.

2. Soaking the sponge: Use the juice from the pineapple compote to soak each sponge circle. This step will add moisture and enhance the pineapple flavor.

3. Adding the cream: Place the first circle on a serving platter and spread some of the white cream on top. Add a few pineapple pieces on top. Continue this process with the second circle and the remaining cream.

4. Finishing the cake: Place the last sponge circle on top, then pour the chocolate glaze over it. Allow the glaze to spread evenly.

5. Decorating with white cream: Use the remaining white cream to create circles on the cake. Use a knife or a toothpick to draw lines from the center of the cake to the edges, forming a beautiful spider web decoration.

Serving and Pairings

This cake is perfect for serving at various occasions, from birthdays to holiday parties. You can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, a cold lemonade or fruit tea pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.

Helpful Tips

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to prepare the cake. This helps achieve a better texture.
- If desired, you can use other fruits instead of pineapple, such as peaches or raspberries, to vary the recipe.
- You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the white cream for an even more intense flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or bittersweet chocolate, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I keep the cake fresh?
It is recommended to store the cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, to maintain its freshness.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with banana puree or applesauce and use vegan chocolate.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of Spider Web Cake with Pineapple has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Pineapple provides a supply of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, both white and dark chocolate contain antioxidants that are beneficial for health, but it is best to consume desserts in moderation.

I hope this recipe will delight you and that you will successfully prepare it in the comfort of your kitchen! Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply as a treat on the weekend, the Spider Web Cake with Pineapple will surely be a hit. Enjoy!