Sponge cake

Quick dessert with sponge cake layers and mascarpone cream: a delicacy for any occasion

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 0 minutes (since the sponge cake layers are ready)
Total time: 3 hours and 30 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 8-10

Who doesn't love a savory and elegant dessert that impresses guests? Today, I will show you how to prepare a delicious cake with sponge cake layers and a fine chocolate mascarpone cream. This simple yet refined recipe will bring smiles and compliments from the whole family. Whether you're making it for a birthday, a get-together with friends, or simply to indulge your taste buds, this cake is sure to become one of your favorites.

A bit of history: Sponge cake layers are a versatile ingredient often used in cakes and tortes. They were created to provide a light and airy texture, perfect for supporting various creams. Combined with mascarpone cream, which originates from Italy, this dessert brings a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Ingredients:
- 1 pack of sponge cake layers (3 pieces = 300 g)
- For the cream:
- 250 g mascarpone
- 2 eggs
- 100 g sugar
- 10 g gelatin
- 200 g tiramisu chocolate Schogetten
- 400 ml whipping cream (30% fat)
- Decoration:
- Chocolate shavings

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the chocolate cream:
- In a saucepan, add the whipping cream and chopped chocolate. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Make sure the cream does not reach boiling point, as the cream may separate.
- Once the chocolate is completely melted and integrated into the cream, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly, then place it in the freezer for about 3 hours. This step is essential for achieving a light and airy cream.

2. Hydrating the gelatin:
- In a small bowl, soak the gelatin in cold water according to the package instructions. This is an important step for achieving the perfect texture of the cream.

3. Preparing the mascarpone cream:
- In a bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar using a mixer until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color.
- Place the bowl over a double boiler (or at a safe distance from the steam) and continue mixing until the mixture thickens. This process will create a stable base for your cream.
- Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes. Then, add the hydrated gelatin and mix well.
- Carefully fold the mascarpone into the mixture, ensuring there are no lumps. This combination will yield a rich and creamy cream.

4. Mixing the chocolate cream:
- Remove the saucepan from the freezer and add the chocolate cream to the mascarpone mixture. Mix well on low speed until you obtain a fluffy and homogeneous cream. If the cream has thickened, don't worry! You can mix it until it returns to a creamy consistency.

5. Assembling the cake:
- Line a baking dish the size of the sponge cake layers with plastic wrap to facilitate the removal of the cake once it is ready.
- Place the first sponge cake layer in the dish and spread an even layer of mascarpone cream. Use a spatula to smooth the cream.
- Add the second sponge cake layer, followed by another layer of cream. Repeat the process with the last layer, and on top, spread the remaining cream.
- Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for an elegant appearance and added flavor.

6. Cooling the cake:
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours. This cooling time will help the cream set and settle properly.

7. Serving:
- When you are ready to serve, use a knife dipped in hot water to cut the portions. This will help achieve clean and beautiful slices.

Practical tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting preparation; this will help with better homogenization.
- You can use different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preferences.
- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can incorporate vanilla essence or a bit of coffee into the chocolate cream.

Frequently asked questions:

1. What can I use instead of gelatin?
- You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative, but make sure to follow the specific instructions to activate it.

2. How do I store the cake?
- The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
- It is recommended not to freeze the sponge cake layers, as the texture may be affected.

Delicious pairings:
This cake pairs perfectly with a glass of sweet wine or fragrant tea. Also, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of cake will create an explosion of flavors.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to put your cooking skills to work and prepare this delicate and delicious cake with sponge cake layers and mascarpone cream. I assure you it will impress everyone and add a touch of joy to every meal!