Zebra Cake (2) for Rares

Zebra Cake with Mascarpone Cream and Berries – A Delicacy for Celebrating 7 Years

Preparation time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 100 minutes
Servings: 12

Introduction

Today, I’m excited to share a zebra cake recipe that not only looks impressive but also tastes absolutely delicious. It’s perfect for festive occasions like birthdays and is sure to become a favorite among kids, thanks to its delightful combination of flavors and colors. Although I faced some challenges with the cake's appearance, its taste was simply irresistible. By sharing this recipe, I hope to inspire you to create your own zebra cake at home!

Recipe History

Zebra cake is a classic recipe that has gained popularity due to its distinctive appearance, featuring stripes of vanilla and chocolate. This flavor combination has been enjoyed by generations and is often associated with celebratory moments. With a simple sponge cake base and two delightful creams, zebra cake becomes a true culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the sponge cake:
- 10 eggs (preferably fresh)
- 200 g sugar
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 5 tablespoons semolina
- 5 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 5 tablespoons honey
- 1.5 packets baking powder
- 60 ml milk (warm, but not hot)
- 200 ml oil (sunflower or olive)
- A pinch of salt

For the mascarpone cream:
- 500 g mascarpone cheese
- 5 egg yolks
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons concentrated lemon syrup
- Vanilla, lemon zest
- 300 g liquid cream
- 10 g gelatin

For the berry cream:
- 300 g mixed berries (blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries from compote)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 10 g gelatin
- 300 g liquid cream
- 200 ml berry syrup

For the chocolate slab:
- 40 g dark chocolate
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 20 g butter
- Chocolate sticks

Decoration:
- Wafer printed with a car
- A packet of clear gel for cakes
- Whipped cream and colorful sprinkles

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Making the Sponge Cake

1. Start by separating the eggs. Beat the egg yolks with the sugar using a mixer until you obtain a dense, pale foam.
2. Gently warm the milk and mix it with the honey. Gradually add this mixture to the egg yolk mixture while continuing to mix.
3. Add the oil, pouring it slowly along the edge of the bowl, then mix well.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour, semolina, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Whip the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the egg mixture.
6. Pour the mixture into a baking pan lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 175°C for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 2: Making the Mascarpone Cream

1. In a bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until it dissolves. Add the lemon syrup, vanilla, and lemon zest.
2. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and place it over a double boiler, stirring constantly until it thickens.
3. Allow the cream to cool. Meanwhile, hydrate the gelatin in cold water and then gently warm it in the microwave.
4. Whip the cream until it becomes firm. Mix the hydrated gelatin into the cooled egg yolk mixture, then fold in the mascarpone, and finally, the whipped cream.

Step 3: Making the Berry Cream

1. Hydrate the gelatin in cold water. In a blender, combine the mixed berries with 2 tablespoons of syrup and blend well.
2. Strain the mixture through a sieve to remove the seeds. Add the remaining syrup.
3. Mix the cornstarch with a little syrup, then add it to the berry puree. Cook the mixture until it thickens, then let it cool.
4. Warm the gelatin and add it to the berry cream, mixing well. Carefully fold in the whipped cream.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

1. In the baking pan where you baked the sponge, place a layer of plastic wrap and add the first layer of sponge.
2. Alternately add spoonfuls of the mascarpone cream and the berry cream. Unfortunately, due to the less fluid consistency of the creams, achieving the zebra effect may be challenging, but don't be discouraged!
3. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to set.

Step 5: Making the Chocolate Slab

1. In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate with the honey and butter, stirring well.
2. Pour the chocolate onto a sheet of parchment paper, forming an even layer. Use chocolate sticks to outline the edges.
3. Place the chocolate slab in the refrigerator to harden.

Step 6: Decorating the Cake

1. The next day, invert the cake onto a serving platter and spread a little whipped cream on top.
2. Place the wafer printed with the car on top and prepare the gelatin according to the package instructions. When it’s warm, pour it over the cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
3. Decorate with whipped cream and colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Zebra cake is perfect served with a scoop of ice cream or a refreshing drink like fresh lemonade or fruit tea. You can also experiment with different berries for the berry cream, using strawberries or peaches instead of blackberries and blueberries.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of fruit for the creams?
Absolutely! You can adapt the recipe using seasonal fruits or your personal preferences.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the sponge and creams, adding sweeter fruits instead.

3. What is the best way to store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in a cake box, for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Benefits

Although zebra cake is a dessert, it can offer some nutritional benefits due to its ingredients. Mascarpone cream provides calcium and protein, while berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. However, it’s important to enjoy this dessert in moderation, considering its high calorie content.

Conclusion

This zebra cake with mascarpone cream and berries is an excellent choice for celebrating special moments in the lives of your loved ones. Whether it’s a birthday, a party, or simply a desire to indulge, this recipe will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. So, put on your apron and start your culinary adventure!