STRAWBERRY CAKE

Strawberry Cake: The Perfect Delight for Sweet Lovers

Who doesn't love a delicious cake that combines the fresh flavors of strawberries with a fluffy texture? This strawberry cake recipe is not just a simple dessert, but a culinary experience that blends tradition with modern tastes. Perfect for special occasions or simply to treat your family, this cake will surely become a favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 50 minutes (including chilling time)
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the sponge:
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of sparkling water (for a fluffy sponge)
- 3 tablespoons of flour

For the chocolate cream:
- 1 pack of butter (about 200 g) at room temperature
- 100 g dark chocolate (or 2 tablespoons of cocoa)
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of rum essence
- 3 tablespoons of milk powder (optional)

For decoration:
- 500 g strawberries (preferably small, for a nice arrangement)
- 500 g whipping cream
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Strawberry juice, coffee, or syrup for soaking

Preparation:

1. Preparing the sponge:
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar and sparkling water until you achieve a light and airy foam. This step is essential as the incorporated air will make the sponge fluffier.

2. Adding the flour:
Gradually add the flour to the egg mixture, mixing with a spatula or whisk to avoid lumps. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the sponge dense.

3. Preparing the egg whites:
In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. They should be firm enough that you can turn the bowl upside down without spilling the whites. Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture, using an up-and-down motion to maintain volume.

4. Baking the sponge:
Pour the mixture into a greased and floured baking pan. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the sponge is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, let it cool.

5. Preparing the chocolate cream:
In a bowl, cream the butter with sugar and rum essence until it becomes a smooth cream. If you choose to use chocolate, melt it in a double boiler or microwave, being careful not to burn it. Incorporate the melted chocolate into the butter mixture, mixing well. If using cocoa, mix it with the milk powder to avoid lumps.

6. Whipping the cream:
Whip the cream until it becomes firm and fluffy. Gradually add the chocolate mixture, gently folding to avoid losing volume.

7. Assembling the cake:
Once the sponge has cooled, cut it in half horizontally to create two layers. Soak each layer with strawberry juice, coffee, or syrup, to taste. Spread an even layer of chocolate cream on the first layer, then arrange the strawberries side by side, covering the entire surface. Place the second layer on top and repeat the process.

8. Decorating:
Cover the entire cake with a generous layer of whipped cream. Use the remaining strawberries and mint leaves to decorate the cake, adding a fresh and vibrant look.

9. Chilling:
Allow the cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving. This time allows the flavors to meld and the cake to achieve a perfect texture.

Helpful tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
- You can also use other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, instead of strawberries to vary the flavors.
- If you want a sweeter cake, add a little more sugar to the chocolate cream.

Nutritional benefits:
This strawberry cake is a good source of vitamins, thanks to the fresh strawberries, which are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Additionally, butter and chocolate provide healthy fats, while the whipped cream adds creaminess.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but you will need to adjust the proportions.
- How can I store the cake? It keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days.
- Can I freeze the cake? Yes, the sponge can be frozen before filling, but it is recommended not to freeze the already assembled cake.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the strawberry cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a berry sauce for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs perfectly with iced tea or fresh lemonade on warm summer days.

Whether you're making it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this strawberry cake will surely please everyone. Enjoy and savor every bite!