Ingredients
Cake Batter









Meringue
Glaze



Instructions
Step 1
Begin by beating the egg yolks with sugar for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the vegetable oil and mix on low speed.
Next, incorporate the sour cream and continue mixing at a low speed.
In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda together. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients. If the batter is too thick, you can thin it with a little hot water (about 50 milliliters or 3 tablespoons).
Step 2
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the prepared batter into a lined baking dish and place it in the oven.
Bake for about 30 minutes and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 3
In a clean bowl, start whipping the egg whites at room temperature with a pinch of salt until foamy.
Gradually add the sugar while continuing to whip. You'll want to beat this mixture for about 7-10 minutes until stiff peaks form.
Step 4
Once the cake is done baking, carefully spread the meringue over the top of the cake evenly.
Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes at 180°C (350°F) until the meringue is golden and firm.
Step 5
While the cake cools, mix together the cocoa powder, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Heat this mixture over medium heat until combined.
Then, add the butter and stir until melted and glossy.
Step 6
Once everything has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the cake or serve separately. You can store any leftovers in a container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below! Enjoy your delightful Smiley Cake! ❤️✍️
Servings
When it comes to serving your Black Smile Cake, there are countless ways to make it special! Serve it fresh from the oven while it’s still warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. 🍦
For a more elegant approach, slice the cake into wedges and dust it with powdered sugar before backing it up with fresh berries – think strawberries and blueberries! 🍓🫐 This contrasts beautifully with the dark layers of chocolate.
Consider a fun twist by adding a chocolate drizzle on top of the meringue. Just melt some chocolate and let it cascade delightfully over the cake, adding a gourmet touch that everyone will adore! 🍫✨
Finally, don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing drink. How about a hot cup of coffee, or a chilled glass of almond milk? Each bite of cake followed by a sip will leave everyone longing for more! ☕🥛
Equipment
Use large bowls to give you plenty of space for whisking and mixing. Choose sturdy ones that don’t tip over easily.
An electric mixer will save you time and effort in beating egg whites and cake batter, but a whisk can work just as well if you’re up for a workout.
A standard round cake pan (about 9 inches) works perfectly. Make sure to grease and flour it to prevent sticking!



This will help you gently fold in ingredients, especially the meringue, without deflating it. A must for achieving that light, airy texture.
Not all ovens are accurate. An oven thermometer can ensure your baked goods are cooked perfectly!



Variations
Looking for a twist on our classic Black Smile Cake? How about trying a gluten-free version? Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to include a binder like xantham gum for that perfect consistency! 🌾🚫
And for those following a vegan diet, replace the eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) to make delectable meringue. Use plant-based cream options in the frosting to keep it completely animal product-free. 🌱🥄 Both versions offer the same deliciousness while catering to diverse dietary needs!
Faq
- What should I do if my meringue doesn't form stiff peaks?
Make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free from grease or moisture. Egg whites need to be at room temperature for best results, and don't forget to add that pinch of salt!
- How can I tell when my cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with few crumbs, your cake is done. Keep a close eye as baking times can vary!
- Can I add flavors to the cake batter?
Absolutely! Try adding vanilla extract or a splash of espresso for an extra flavor profile that complements the chocolate.
- How can I store leftover cake?
Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can be kept in the fridge for up to five days!
- Can meringue be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meringue and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just make sure it stays covered to avoid moisture.
- What’s the best way to thaw a frozen cake?
Remove the cake from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This prevents a watery texture from forming.