Sponge cake for cake

Pound Cake Recipe for Cake: Light and Tasty Base

When it comes to making a delicious cake, a well-made pound cake is the perfect base. This fluffy layer is not only easy to make, but it also pairs well with a variety of creams and fillings. Let’s venture into the fascinating world of baking, where each ingredient plays its essential role, and discover how to achieve a perfect pound cake!

Preparation Time:
- Active time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total: 45 minutes
- Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs (separated)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- Pinch of salt

Necessary Utensils:
- 26 cm round pan or 30 cm square pan
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Large bowl
- Spatula
- Parchment paper
- Oil for greasing

History of Pound Cake:
Pound cake has a long history, being a popular recipe in many kitchens around the world. It is considered a symbol of sweetness and celebrations, with roots in baking traditions that date back centuries. It is said that its name comes from the Latin word "panis," which means bread, highlighting its fluffy and light texture.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Pan:
Start by greasing the pan with a little oil and placing a piece of parchment paper at the bottom. This will prevent the pound cake from sticking and make it easier to remove from the pan.

2. Beating the Egg Whites:
In a clean bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use the mixer to beat them at high speed until you achieve a consistent foam. Gradually add the sugar until the foam becomes stiff and glossy. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy pound cake.

3. Adding the Egg Yolks:
Once the egg whites are well beaten, add the yolks one at a time, continuing to mix. This step will give a beautiful color and delicate flavor to the pound cake.

4. Incorporating the Oil:
Add the two tablespoons of oil to the egg mixture. This will add moisture and contribute to the fine texture of the layer.

5. Flour and Cornstarch:
Sift the flour and cornstarch over the egg mixture, gently folding with a spatula. It is important not to mix too vigorously, as the air incorporated into the egg whites must remain intact to ensure a fluffy texture.

6. Baking:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the surface. Place the pan in a preheated oven at 180°C, allowing it to bake for about 30 minutes. Check if it is done by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

7. Cooling:
Once the pound cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a damp towel and let it cool completely. This trick will prevent the layer from cracking and will give it a perfect texture.

Cocoa Variation:
If you want to transform this pound cake into a delicious cocoa version, simply reduce the amount of flour by two tablespoons and replace them with two tablespoons of cocoa powder. This variation will add a chocolate note and will be perfect for special cakes.

Serving and Combinations:
Pound cake is extremely versatile and can be filled with various creams, jams, or fruits. I recommend soaking it with a sugar syrup or fruit juice to add moisture. You can also serve it with a chocolate glaze or whipped cream and fresh fruits.

Useful Tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a uniform mixture.
- Do not open the oven door during baking to prevent the internal temperature from dropping.
- If you want to make a larger cake, use the following ratio: 8 eggs, 8 tablespoons of sugar, and 8 tablespoons of flour, adjusting the baking time as needed.

Nutritional Benefits:
Pound cake is a source of healthy carbohydrates due to the flour and contains protein from the eggs. It can also be enriched with vitamins and minerals through fruit fillings or dairy-based creams. It is important to consume in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use farm eggs?
Yes, farm eggs can add extra flavor and nutrients. Make sure they are fresh.

- What do I do if the pound cake doesn’t rise?
Check if you beat the egg whites sufficiently and if the oven is at the correct temperature.

- Can I freeze the pound cake?
Yes, you can freeze the pound cake, but it is recommended to make it in advance and let it cool completely.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! This pound cake is the perfect base for special cakes and will surely impress anyone who tastes it. Enjoy!