Tiger cake

Tiger cake - a charming dessert that blends delicious flavors into a perfect harmony! This tiger cake recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a true visual delight, thanks to the contrasting stripes of white and brown batter. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of warm milk or a fragrant coffee, this cake will quickly become your favorite. Let's begin the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients

- 250 g of flour
- 250 g of margarine (or soft butter)
- 250 g of sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (or 1 packet of bourbon sugar)
- 4 eggs
- 50 g of starch
- 1/2 packet of baking powder
- 75 ml of milk
- a pinch of salt
- 15-20 g of cocoa

Necessary utensils

- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Cake pan (about 25 cm)
- Silicone spatula
- Portioning spoon
- Toothpick for testing doneness

Brief history of the tiger cake

The tiger cake, with its contrasting layers of batter, is a dessert rooted in European pastry traditions. This recipe has been adapted over time, becoming a favorite in many households. Due to its simple combination of ingredients, the tiger cake has become an accessible dessert, perfect for any occasion. It is ideal to be served at a gathering with friends or as a delicious snack in the middle of the day.

Steps for preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a homogeneous mixture. Buy quality ingredients, especially butter or margarine, as they influence the final texture and flavor of the cake.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, add the soft margarine and sugar (including vanilla sugar). Using an electric mixer or whisk, mix the ingredients for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes white and fluffy. It is important to aerate the mixture well, as this step will contribute to the fluffy texture of the cake.

3. Adding the eggs: Add the eggs one by one, ensuring to mix well after each addition. This will help the eggs incorporate evenly into the mixture.

4. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour, starch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk (start with 50 ml of the 75 ml). This step is essential to achieve a well-bound batter, but not too compact.

5. Dividing the mixture: Once the mixture is homogeneous, divide it into two equal parts. In one of them, add cocoa and the remaining milk (about 25 ml). Mix well until the cocoa is completely incorporated.

6. Preparing the pan: Grease the cake pan with oil and dust it with flour. This will help the cake not to stick. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper to simplify cleaning.

7. Filling the pan: Start filling the pan by adding a layer of white batter in the center of the pan. Then, add a layer of cocoa batter, also in the center, and continue alternating the two types of batter until you finish all the batter. This technique will create the characteristic tiger appearance.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 175-180 degrees Celsius. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Do not open the oven door in the first 20 minutes, as this could cause a drop in internal temperature and affect the structure of the cake.

9. Toothpick test: After the baking time has expired, perform the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. It may take a little longer, so don't hesitate to leave it a few extra minutes if necessary.

10. Cooling and serving: Once ready, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then carefully turn it onto a rack to cool completely. If desired, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance.

Useful tips

- Variations of the recipe: You can add chopped nuts or dark chocolate for an extra texture and flavor. Also, try replacing cocoa with cinnamon for a different flavored cake.
- Serving: The tiger cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of warm milk, coffee, or even a fragrant tea. It is perfect for breakfast or as a snack during the day.
- Storing the cake: This cake stays fresh for a few days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Cut it into slices and wrap it well before placing it in the freezer.

Nutritional information

This tiger cake recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving, with a good content of carbohydrates and fats, due to the ingredients used. It is a good choice to satisfy your sweet cravings, but it is recommended to consume it in moderation, especially if you are following a diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use oil instead of margarine? Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. The oil will make the cake moister, but it will not have the same fluffy structure.
- How can I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan? Ensure that greasing with oil and dusting with flour are done correctly. You can also use parchment paper to ensure easy release.
- Can the tiger cake be made without sugar? There are versions that use natural sweeteners, but the result will differ in taste and texture.

This tiger cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and satisfaction in every slice. So put on your chef's uniform and let yourself be inspired by this wonderful recipe!