Sponge cake with cocoa cream

Sponge cake with cocoa cream - a classic delicacy, perfect for any occasion

Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

The history of sponge cake is rich with traditions and innovations, deeply rooted in global culinary culture. Over the years, this recipe has evolved, incorporating various flavors and ingredients, and today, I will present to you a delicious version of sponge cake with cocoa cream that is sure to impress any dessert lover.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use unsweetened cocoa?
- Yes, but you will need to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe to compensate.
2. Can I replace butter with margarine?
- Yes, but the taste and texture may vary slightly.
3. How do I keep the sponge cake fresh after baking?
- You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.

Ingredients:

For the sponge cake base:
- 5 fresh eggs
- 1 and a half cups of sugar (you can also use powdered sugar for a finer texture)
- 1 and a half cups of flour
- 10 tablespoons of hot water
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- Vanilla sugar, essences, and flavors (to taste)

For the cocoa cream:
- 2 eggs
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 50 g high-quality cocoa

Here’s how to prepare this quick and delicious dessert:

Step 1: Preparing the cocoa cream
Start by preparing the cream, as it needs to cool before use. In a heat-resistant bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes frothy and fluffy. Add the butter cut into cubes and the cocoa. Place the bowl over a double boiler (over a pot of boiling water) and continuously stir with a spatula or whisk. Continue stirring until the cream thickens and becomes creamy. Once you have achieved the desired consistency, remove the cream from heat and let it cool.

Step 2: Preparing the sponge cake base
Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add one cup of sugar and 5 tablespoons of hot water and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

In another bowl, beat the yolks with the oil, then add the remaining sugar and the 5 tablespoons of hot water, mixing until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once you have a smooth mixture, gently fold it into the beaten egg whites using a spatula, being careful to mix from the bottom up to avoid losing air.

Now, add the flour mixed with the baking powder. Gently mix using the same technique until there are no lumps.

Step 3: Assembling and baking
Prepare a loaf pan with parchment paper. Pour half of the sponge cake mixture into the pan. Using a spoon, add the cocoa cream in the center (or as preferred) and cover with the remaining batter.

Now, it’s time to bake the dessert. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the pan inside. Bake for about 50 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test – insert a toothpick in the center of the sponge cake, and if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Tip: Avoid opening the oven in the first 20 minutes of baking, as this can cause the sponge cake to fall. If using a larger pan, the baking time may be shorter, so check it earlier.

Step 4: Serving
After removing the sponge cake from the oven, let it cool completely in the pan, then turn it out onto a serving platter. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a more festive look.

This sponge cake with cocoa cream is wonderful served alongside a scoop of ice cream or with a fresh fruit sauce, such as raspberries or strawberries. A fragrant coffee or herbal tea will perfectly complement this dessert.

Personalized option: You can add pieces of nuts or almonds to the sponge cake batter for added texture and flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Although it is a dessert, this recipe contains eggs and butter, providing a source of protein and healthy fats. Cocoa, besides offering a delicious flavor, is rich in antioxidants.

Calories: A serving of sponge cake with cocoa cream has approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the portioning and ingredients used.

I hope you will try this sponge cake with cocoa cream recipe and that it will quickly become a favorite in your family! Enjoy!