Two-colored cake

The two-colored cake is a dessert that combines flavor and pleasant appearance in an unmistakable way. This cake not only delights the eyes but also the taste buds, making it perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings or simply to add a touch of sweetness to your day.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the batter:
- 3 fresh eggs
- 250 g sugar
- 250 ml milk
- 150 ml oil (preferably sunflower or rapeseed)
- 300 g flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla or 1-2 tablespoons vanilla essence
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 50 g coconut (optional)

For the glaze:
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 4 tablespoons water
- 2-3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 piece of butter or margarine the size of a walnut

The story of the cake
The two-colored cake has deep roots in culinary tradition, inspired by the classic combination of vanilla and chocolate. It is a versatile dessert that has evolved over time, with each housewife adding her own distinctive touch. Today, this cake is appreciated for its simplicity and speed, making it a popular choice for those who want a delicious dessert without too much effort.

Preparing the two-colored cake
1. Beat the eggs with the sugar: In a large bowl, crack the 3 eggs and add the 250 g of sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on high speed until it becomes a frothy cream and light yellow in color. This is when the sugar will completely dissolve, and the eggs will capture air, giving the cake a fluffy texture.

2. Add the milk and oil: While continuing to mix, gradually add the 250 ml of milk and 150 ml of oil. It is important to incorporate them slowly to avoid separating the ingredients. Mix until the composition becomes homogeneous.

3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the 300 g of flour together with 1 packet of baking powder and 1 packet of vanilla. This step is essential to eliminate any lumps and ensure an even cake. Add the flour mixture to the wet composition, mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed until everything is well incorporated.

4. Dividing the batter: Divide the batter into two equal parts. In one part, add the 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and mix well, ensuring that the cocoa is completely incorporated. If you want to enrich the flavor of one part, you can add 50 g of coconut to the white batter.

5. Assembling the cake: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking tray (approximately 30x20 cm) by greasing it with butter and dusting it with flour. Use a spoon to alternately pour a spoonful of the white batter and a spoonful of the cocoa batter. Continue this process until the batter is finished. It is important to work quickly to avoid mixing the colors.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 40 minutes. It is good to check the cake after 30 minutes, as each oven is different. A simple testing method is to insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

7. Preparing the glaze: While the cake is baking, you can prepare the glaze. In a small pot, combine 4 tablespoons of sugar, 4 tablespoons of water, and 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Place the pot over medium heat, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes or until the sugar has completely dissolved. Add the butter and mix until you achieve a uniform consistency. If you prefer a thicker glaze, leave it on the heat a little longer, but be careful not to let it become too dense.

8. Finalizing: Once the cake has cooled, pour the glaze over it using a spoon, spreading it evenly. You can let the glaze set a little before cutting the cake into portions.

Serving suggestions: This two-colored cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit sauce. You can also serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a moment of indulgence.

Variations:
- You can replace the cocoa powder with carob powder for a healthier option.
- Add chocolate chips to the cocoa batter for an extra texture and flavor.
- You can experiment with other flavors, such as almond or orange, to give your dessert a personalized touch.

Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of this cake contains approximately 220-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. The eggs provide protein, while the milk brings calcium. The flour and sugar contribute to the carbohydrate intake, providing energy. Consumed in moderation, this cake can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace the eggs? Yes, you can use a mixture of 1 mashed banana or ¼ cup of applesauce for each egg.
- How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar by 50 g, but make sure the batter remains moist.

The two-colored cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and warmth in every bite. So, get ready to delight your family and friends with this simple yet delicious recipe!