चॉकलेट केक

Chocolate Cake

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

I invite you to discover a delicious chocolate cake recipe that will bring joy to both children and adults! This decadent cake, inspired by the famous recipes of a great cooking enthusiast, is a perfect choice for special occasions or simply for indulgence. With a rich chocolate base and a smooth cream, this dessert will surely become your favorite.

Ingredients

*For the base:*
- 250 g dark chocolate (between 70-85% cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 125 g soft butter (make sure it is at room temperature)
- 6 eggs (fresh, preferably from free-range hens)
- 175 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean for a more authentic flavor)

*For the cream:*
- 125 g white chocolate (for a pleasant contrast in taste)
- 200 ml liquid cream (use cream with at least 30% fat content to achieve an airy texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient details

Dark chocolate is key for a chocolate cake with a deep flavor. It is rich in antioxidants, which are beneficial for health. Butter not only adds a velvety texture but also contributes to the richness of the flavor. Eggs provide moisture and structure, while sugar, besides the sweetness it offers, helps create a fluffy texture.

Step by step to a perfect cake

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the butter is soft by leaving it at room temperature for a while before starting the preparation.

2. Melting the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, add the chopped dark chocolate and soft butter. Place the bowl over a pot of boiling water, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water (bain-marie method). Stir until both ingredients are completely melted and homogeneous. Let it cool slightly.

3. Beating the eggs: In another bowl, beat the 6 whole eggs along with the 4 yolks and half of the sugar (about 87 g) and the vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to achieve a fluffy and light-colored mixture.

4. Incorporating the chocolate: Carefully fold the melted and cooled chocolate into the egg mixture, gently mixing with a spatula to avoid losing air from the composition.

5. Beating the egg whites: In another clean bowl, beat the remaining 2 egg whites with the rest of the sugar (about 87 g) until you achieve a firm foam. Gradually add them to the chocolate mixture, gently folding with the spatula.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 160°C (low heat). Pour the mixture into a cake pan (about 20 cm in diameter) lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until the cake is firm at the edges, but the center will remain slightly soft (it will settle later).

7. Preparing the cream: While the cake is baking, you can prepare the cream. Melt the white chocolate in a bain-marie, then let it cool. Whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm, then gently fold in the melted white chocolate and vanilla extract.

8. Assembling the cake: After the cake has completely cooled and the center has settled, fill the crater formed in the middle of the cake with the cream. Decorate with chocolate eggs for a festive look.

9. Patience and serving: It is essential to let the cake cool completely before cutting it. This will ensure a better texture and easier slicing. You can serve the cake alongside a scoop of ice cream or a cup of black coffee, which will perfectly contrast the sweetness of the chocolate.

Tips and tricks

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a teaspoon of instant coffee to the chocolate mixture.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best results.
- You can experiment with various types of chocolate (milk chocolate or chocolate with nuts) to create interesting variations of the cake.
- Feel free to personalize your cake with fresh fruits or a caramel sauce for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional benefits

The chocolate cake is a good source of antioxidants from dark chocolate, and the eggs and cream add protein and healthy fats. Of course, it is a dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation, but it is an excellent choice for indulgence on special occasions.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the cake will be sweeter and have a different taste.

2. Can the cake be stored in the fridge?
Yes, but it’s best to keep it covered at room temperature to maintain its moist texture.

3. How can I tell if the cake is well-baked?
Check if the edges are firm and the center is slightly elastic to the touch. You can also do the toothpick test – if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

This chocolate cake is not just a recipe, but a cooking experience that will bring you joy and satisfaction. Enjoy every bite and share it with your loved ones!