Summer Cake

No-Bake Summer Cake – a Refreshing and Simple Delight

In the warm season, when the sun shines in the sky and the desire to spend time in the kitchen diminishes, a refreshing no-bake cake becomes the perfect choice. This summer cake is a dessert that harmoniously combines layers of cookies, chocolate, and whipped cream, offering an explosion of flavors and textures. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it is also an ideal option to cool off on hot days. Here’s how to make it step by step, to impress family and friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients:

*Layer 1: Cookie Base*
- 500 g cocoa Piknic cookies
- 1 pack Unirea margarine for creams
- 1 essence of rum
- 4-5 pieces of Turkish delight (preferably rose-flavored for its unmistakable aroma)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 8 tablespoons milk
- 2 nectarines (or other seasonal fruits like peaches or apricots)

*Layer 2: Chocolate Cream*
- 1 packet Dr. Oetker chocolate pudding powder
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 500 ml milk

*Layer 3: Whipped Cream Foam*
- 1 packet Dr. Oetker whipped cream dessert foam
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 150 ml cold milk
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 3 chocolate cubes (for decoration)

Preparation Instructions:

*Layer 1: Cookie Base*

1. Start by melting the margarine in a bain-marie or in the microwave. Make sure not to overheat it, just let it melt completely. Let it cool slightly.
2. While the margarine cools, crush the cocoa Piknic cookies. You can use a food processor or a plastic bag and a rolling pin to crush them.
3. Cut the Turkish delight into small pieces to better integrate into the mixture.
4. In a large bowl, mix the crushed cookies with the cut Turkish delight, the 3 tablespoons of sugar, the essence of rum, the melted margarine, and the 8 tablespoons of milk. Mix well until you get a homogeneous composition.
5. Pour the cookie mixture into a pan (preferably 20x30 cm) and press it evenly on the bottom of the pan. Use a spatula or the bottom of a glass to press it down well.
6. Slice the nectarines thinly and arrange them evenly on top of the cookie base, then place the pan in the fridge for 15 minutes to cool.

*Layer 2: Chocolate Cream*

7. In a saucepan, combine the pudding powder with the 3 tablespoons of sugar and 500 ml of milk. Mix well to avoid lumps.
8. Place the saucepan over medium heat and continue to stir until the mixture starts to boil and thicken. Once it has boiled, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
9. Pour the chocolate cream over the cookie and nectarine layer, ensuring it spreads evenly. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for another 15 minutes.

*Layer 3: Whipped Cream Foam*

10. In a bowl, add the whipped cream dessert foam, the 2 packets of vanilla sugar, and 150 ml of cold milk. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients until you achieve a fluffy and airy foam.
11. Once the chocolate cream has completely cooled, spread the whipped cream foam evenly over the chocolate layer. Use a spatula to smooth the surface.
12. Grate chocolate on top for an elegant look and to add extra flavor.

Finalization and Serving

13. Place the cake in the fridge to set for at least 4 hours, but ideally leave it overnight. This way, the flavors will intensify, and the layers will set better.
14. When you are ready to serve, cut the cake into squares or rectangles and enjoy it with a refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or fresh lemonade.

Useful Tips:

- You can replace the Piknic cookies with digestive cookies or Oreo cookies for a different taste.
- If you prefer a tart note, you can add some raspberries or blueberries between the layers of the cake.
- Instead of nectarines, you can use any other seasonal fruit, like peaches or strawberries.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start preparing, to achieve a better texture.

Nutritional Benefits:

This cake is an excellent choice for a sweet snack without the need to turn on the oven. The cookies provide carbohydrates for energy, while the whipped cream adds extra flavor and aroma. Nectarines are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, and the Turkish delight brings an exotic touch to the dessert. Although it is a sweet dessert, consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other types of margarine?
Yes, you can use margarine or butter, depending on your preferences. Butter will provide a richer flavor.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the base or in the chocolate cream.

3. Can it be frozen?
The cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavor and texture.

4. What drinks pair well with this cake?
Fruit teas, lemonade, or a sweet white wine are excellent choices to accompany this cake.

A Personal Note:

This cake is a symbol of summer in my home. Every time I make it, I remember the evenings spent with family, savoring each piece while listening to our favorite music. It is a dessert that brings joy and smiles, and the combination of layers makes each bite a true revelation. I encourage you to share your memories and stories related to this cake with your loved ones, turning every slice into a special moment.

Enjoy this summer cake and cherish every moment spent in the kitchen! Bon appétit!