Chocolate cake with condensed milk caramel frosting

Ingredients

Sponge cake (16 cm | 6.29 inch)

4 eggs
150 grams (5.3 ounces) sugar
90 grams (3.2 ounces) neutral vegetable oil
180 grams (6.3 ounces) flour
45 grams (1.6 ounces) cocoa powder
9 grams (1.5 teaspoons) baking powder
1/5 teaspoon baking soda
180 milliliters (3/4 cup) hot water

Condensed milk caramel frosting

2 eggs
350 grams (12.3 ounces) sour cream (20%)
Vanilla to taste
100 grams (3.5 ounces) sugar
25 grams (0.9 ounces) corn starch
150 grams (5.3 ounces) butter
50 grams (1.8 ounces) caramel (boiled sweetened condensed milk)

Cream cheese frosting for decorating

300 grams (10.6 ounces) cream cheese
150 grams (5.3 ounces) butter
125 grams (4.4 ounces) caramel (boiled sweetened condensed milk)

Equipment

Mixing Bowls
Use multiple sizes to keep your ingredients organized; metal or glass works best for maintaining temperature.
Hand or Stand Mixer
A stand mixer can save you time, but a well-powered hand mixer is just as effective for whipping eggs and mixing batter.
Sifter
Sifting ensures a lighter, fluffier cake by aerating your dry ingredients and removing lumps.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are crucial; investing in a quality set can make a big difference.
Baking Rings (16 cm | 6.29 inch)
Foil-wrapped rings help the cake bake evenly and can be used to shape other desserts as well.
Spatula
A silicone spatula is versatile for mixing, folding, and scraping down the sides of your bowls.
Clingfilm
Essential for wrapping the cake and keeping it fresh during the cooling process.
Oven Thermometer
An oven thermometer ensures your oven is at the exact temperature needed, which is crucial for evenly baked cakes.

Instructions

Step 1

1. Bring water to a boil.

Step 2

2. Combine all the dry ingredients and sift them together.

Step 3

Sifting helps to remove lumps and aerates the mix for a lighter, fluffier texture.

Step 4

3. In a separate bowl, beat the room-temperature eggs with sugar until fluffy.

Step 5

Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for a better emulsification.

Step 6

4. Add the neutral vegetable oil, flour, and cocoa powder to the mixture and mix on the lowest speed.

Step 7

Mixing on low speed ensures the batter remains airy.

Step 8

5. Gradually add the hot water and mix quickly.

Step 9

Hot water helps to bloom the cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor.

Step 10

6. Pour the batter into two foil-wrapped rings.

Step 11

If you don't have two rings, you can bake in batches or use one ring, though the baking time will be longer.

Step 12

7. Bake in a preheated oven at 347°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes.

Step 13

Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done; it should come out clean.

Step 14

8. Let the cake cool, wrap it in cling film, and leave it in the fridge for 6 hours.

Step 15

Cooling the cake thoroughly helps in better slicing and assembling later.

Step 16

9. Mix the sugar with the corn starch.

Step 17

10. In a saucepan with a thick bottom, place sour cream, eggs, and vanilla.

Step 18

11. Stir in the sugar mixture and cook over low heat until it comes to a boil.

Step 19

Keep stirring constantly to avoid curdling.

Step 20

12. Leave to cool in another container.

Step 21

13. Beat the soft butter and gradually add the cream mixture and boiled condensed milk until combined.

Step 22

Ensure both the butter and cream are at room temperature to avoid splitting.

Step 23

14. For the cream cheese frosting, beat the soft butter until smooth.

Step 24

15. Add the room temperature cream cheese and boiled condensed milk. Whisk to combine.

Step 25

The ingredients mix better when at the same temperature.

Step 26

16. Spread the frosting around the cake.

Step 27

For best results, use an offset spatula for even spreading.

Step 28

The assembly process is shown in the video recipe for better understanding.

Servings

Picture this: you’ve just made this stunning cake, and you’re wondering how to present it to your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience! First off, slice the cake and place each piece on a chic dessert plate. For a touch of elegance, you can drizzle some additional caramel sauce over the top. 🍮 Pairing this cake with a hot beverage like coffee, espresso, or even a well-brewed tea makes a delightful combination. The rich flavors of the cake contrast beautifully with the bitter notes of coffee or the subtle sweetness of tea. ☕🍵 If you’re hosting a special occasion, consider serving it alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The freshness of the fruit and the creamy texture of the ice cream will add a refreshing twist to every bite. 🍓🍦 For the ultimate indulgence, serve the cake slightly warm and watch your guests' faces light up with joy as the flavors melt in their mouths. Remember, presentation is key, so get creative with your plating to make a lasting impression. 🌟✨

Variations

Want to make this delicious cake gluten-free or vegan? Here’s how you can do it! **Gluten-Free Variation** 🍰: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Ensure that your baking powder and any other additives are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients and instructions remain the same, giving you a fluffy, gluten-free sponge cake. **Vegan Variation** 🛤️🌱: Swap out the eggs for a *flaxseed meal* and *water* mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Use a plant-based butter and vegan cream cheese for the frosting, and make sure your caramel (boiled sweetened condensed milk) is also vegan. Coconut or almond milk sour cream can replace the dairy sour cream. Follow the same instructions, and you’ll have a delicious vegan cake that everyone will love!

Faq

How do I know when the sponge cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is done.
Can I use regular condensed milk instead of boiled sweetened condensed milk?
For the best caramel flavor, boiled sweetened condensed milk is recommended. However, you can boil regular condensed milk until it thickens and turns caramel-like.
What’s the best way to store the assembled cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
How can I make my cake layers more even?
Using a cake leveler or a serrated knife, trim the top of each layer until they are flat. This will help you achieve a more professional-looking cake.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the frosting up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore its consistency.
What can I do if my frosting is too runny?
Chill the frosting in the refrigerator for a bit before using. If it’s still too runny, add some powdered sugar to thicken it up, but be mindful it will increase sweetness.