Water cake

Water Cake: A Delicious and Simple Recipe, Perfect for Any Occasion

When it comes to desserts, water cake is an excellent choice, boasting a fluffy texture and refined taste. This classic recipe, with deep roots in culinary tradition, is the perfect combination of moisture and lightness. It’s ideal for serving at festive meals or as a delightful snack throughout the day. Plus, it doesn’t require sophisticated ingredients, and the preparation process is quick and easy.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 10-12

Necessary Ingredients

- 8 fresh eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 2 cups of sugar (200 g each)
- 2 cups of flour (approximately 250 g each)
- 6 tablespoons of oil (approximately 90 ml)
- 16 tablespoons of water (approximately 240 ml)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of baking soda extinguished with lemon juice
- 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder (optional)
- Powdered sugar flavored with vanilla for decoration

Necessary Utensils

- 2 large bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Loaf pan (or small pans for portioning)
- Spoon or spatula
- Sifter for flour
- Baking paper (optional)

History and Tradition

Water cake is a recipe that has been prepared for generations, based on the principle of simplicity. This recipe became popular due to its ease of preparation, making it a perfect choice for beginners as well as those with experience in the kitchen. The liquid in the mixture, water in this case, ensures a moist and fluffy cake, while the addition of cocoa adds a touch of elegance.

Step by Step: Preparing the Water Cake

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by separating the eggs. Make sure that the egg whites have no trace of yolk, or they won’t whip well. It’s recommended for the eggs to be at room temperature to achieve a more stable foam.

2. Whipping the egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with one cup of sugar. Use a mixer on high speed until you achieve a firm, glossy foam. Test the consistency: turn the bowl upside down; if the foam doesn’t move, it’s ready.

3. Preparing the egg yolks: In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the other cup of sugar, gradually adding the oil. Mix until the composition becomes homogeneous and creamy. Then, add the water in the same manner, followed by the vanilla sugar.

4. Incorporating the flour: Sift the flour and gradually add it over the egg yolk mixture. Gently mix with a spatula to avoid lumps.

5. Adding the baking soda: Extinguish the baking soda with a few drops of lemon juice and incorporate it into the batter. This will help the cake rise during baking.

6. Incorporating the egg whites: Fold the whipped egg whites into the egg yolk mixture, carefully mixing from the inside out. This step is essential to preserve the air in the egg whites.

7. Preparing the pans: Grease the loaf pan with oil and dust it with flour, ensuring the batter won’t stick. If you prefer, you can use baking paper for added ease.

8. Creating a marbled effect (optional): If you want a marbled cake, set aside a portion of the batter (about 1 cup) and mix it with cocoa. Pour the cocoa mixture over the batter in the pan and use a fork or spoon to create a pattern.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cake for 40-45 minutes. Check if it’s done with the toothpick test: insert it in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is baked.

10. Cooling and decorating: Let the cake cool for about 10-15 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once completely cooled, dust it with powdered sugar flavored with vanilla.

Practical Tips

- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can experiment with different essences – vanilla, almond, or orange – instead of vanilla sugar.
- The cake keeps well at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3-4 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar will add a caramelized note, but the final result will be moister.

2. How can I make the cake moister?
You can add a bit of yogurt or sour cream to the mixture for a more moist texture.

3. What can I do with leftover cake?
You can turn the leftover cake into a trifle, layering it between vanilla cream and fresh fruit.

Pairing with Other Recipes and Drinks

Water cake pairs perfectly with a cup of flavored coffee or a fruit tea. It’s also delicious alongside vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit compote. If you want to prepare a more complex dessert, you can serve the cake with warm chocolate sauce or chocolate mousse for a contrast of textures.

Possible Variations

- Fruit Cake: Add pieces of bananas or grated apples to the batter for extra moisture and flavor.
- Nut Cake: Including ground nuts or almonds adds a pleasant crunch and rich flavor.
- Spiced Cake: Experiment with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to give the cake a flavorful twist.

This water cake recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to put your personal touch on it. Whether you choose the simple version or add your favorite ingredients, this dessert will surely become one of your favorites. Cook it with love, enjoy it with your loved ones, and savor each fluffy and delicious slice!