White Puppy Birthday Cake

White Puppy Birthday Cake - A Treat Full of Love

This summer, I had the joy of adding a new member to our family: an adorable Maltese puppy. For my eldest daughter's birthday, who has been an honor student, she asked me to make her a dog-shaped cake. It was a challenge, but I devoted myself wholeheartedly, and the result was a cake so large that we barely had room for it! It was truly an incredible experience, and the taste... amazing!

Since I started making sweets at home, I realized how many additives are found in commercial products. That’s why I decided to share this cake recipe, which can be easily adapted to become part of your favorite desserts.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes Baking Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 1 hour Servings: 12

Ingredients

*For the sponge:*
- 6 eggs
- 340 grams sugar
- 160 grams flour (which already contains baking powder)
- 25 grams cocoa powder

*For the cream:*
- 600 grams whipped cream
- 150 grams chocolate for melting
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons brandy

*For the syrup:*
- 240 ml milk mixed with 2 tablespoons brandy

*For decoration:*
- Coconut flakes
- Chocolate for decoration
- Decorative sugar tubes (for the collar)
- Chocolate candies (for eyes)

Step by Step Preparation

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Make sure it is well heated before placing the sponges inside.

2. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes homogeneous and takes on a light color, similar to that of lemon.

3. Adding dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the cocoa powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, gently stirring with a spoon. Be careful not to deflate the eggs – you want to achieve a fluffy and airy mixture.

4. Baking the sponges: Divide the mixture into two parts, pouring half into a 22 cm round cake pan and the other half into a 22 cm square pan. Make sure the pans are lined with baking paper and greased with oil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Check the sponges in the middle to ensure they are baked.

5. Cooling the sponges: When they are ready, take the sponges out of the oven and carefully turn them onto a sheet of aluminum foil sprinkled with powdered sugar. Carefully remove the baking paper to avoid tearing the sponges.

6. Preparing the cream: In a saucepan, melt the chocolate over low heat, adding the brandy and egg yolks. Mix well until the mixture becomes homogeneous and let it cool. Once cooled, fold in half of the whipped cream into the chocolate cream.

7. Assembling the cake: Cut the sponges and slice each sponge in half horizontally. Place the bottom part of the round sponge on a serving plate, moisten with half of the milk brandy syrup, add the chocolate cream, reserving a small part for the puppy's ear and tail. Place the rest of the sponge on top, moistened with the remaining syrup.

8. Finishing the cake: Cover the entire cake with whipped cream, leaving aside the ear and tail. On those areas, put the chocolate cream. Sprinkle coconut flakes on the white part of the cake and decorate with pieces of chocolate. Use the sugar tubes to create a collar for the puppy and chocolate to draw the paws and place the eyes (chocolate candies).

9. Cooling: It is recommended to leave the cake in the refrigerator overnight to firm up the cream, which will make cutting much easier and the cake's texture perfect.

Practical Tips:

- Preparing a day in advance: It is ideal to prepare the cake a day before the celebration, so the flavors blend perfectly.
- Allergen-free option: If you want a lighter version, you can replace the chocolate with a dairy-free alternative.
- Serving: The cake can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a berry sauce for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional Benefits:
This cake contains no butter or other fats, making it a lighter option for those who want to enjoy a delicious dessert without accumulating too many calories. Additionally, chocolate can provide antioxidants, while whipped cream adds a note of freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to cut it into portions before placing it in the freezer.

- Can I replace the brandy?
Yes, you can use vanilla extract or other flavors, depending on your preferences.

- How can I customize the cake?
You can add various fruits or nuts to the cream to give it a personal touch.

This dog-shaped cake is not just a treat, but also a true declaration of love for loved ones. Happy birthday and happy cooking!