Ingredients
Chocolate Sponge Cake
Cream Cheese Frosting
Instructions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine all *dry ingredients*: all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent and cocoa.
Add the *wet ingredients* to the mix. Crack the eggs into the bowl and pour in the vegetable oil.
Step 2
Mix the bowl contents gently, ensuring the dry ingredients are moistened. Gradually add the *boiling water* and continue to stir until you achieve a *smooth, uniform* batter.
Step 3
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with *parchment paper* and spread the batter evenly across its surface.
Bake for about 15-25 minutes. Check readiness by inserting a toothpick into the cake—it's done when the toothpick comes out clean.
Step 4
Begin by whisking the *cold heavy cream* at maximum speed in a stand mixer or using a hand mixer. This should take about a minute.
Add the powdered sugar and cream cheese in 2-3 increments, continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form, approximately 2-3 more minutes. The frosting should be firm enough to hold its shape on the beater. Be cautious not to over-whip.
Servings
🌟 **Fancy Dinner Party**: Serve this delectable chocolate cake with a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce and a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for that extra indulgence.
🎉 **Birthday Bash**: Elevate the celebration by decorating the cake with colorful sprinkles or fresh berries. Add a personalized touch with edible flowers or a final touch of whipped cream for the special birthday guest.
☕ **Afternoon Tea Delight**: Enjoy a slice of this cake with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. For a more refreshing option, pair it with iced coffee or a chilled herbal tea.
Equipment
Multiple mixing bowls are essential for separating and combining your ingredients without hassle. Use one large bowl for the dry ingredients and another for combining the wet ingredients.
While you can use a hand whisk, an electric mixer will save you time and effort, especially when whipping cream to stiff peaks.
A 9x13 inch baking pan works well for this cake. Don't forget to line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake.
An oven thermometer will help ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for perfect baking results.
Variations
🍩 **Gluten-Free Version**: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep an eye on the texture, and you may need to adjust the amount of boiling water to ensure it reaches the desired consistency.
🌱 **Vegan Delight**: Swap out the eggs for a mixture of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg). Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and ensure your chocolate is dairy-free for the frosting.
Faq
- What if my cake turns out dense?
Ensure you mix your ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Also, double-check your baking powder's expiration date, as this can affect the cake's rise.
- How do I know if my whipped cream is over-whipped?
If the whipped cream begins to look grainy and starts to separate, it's over-whipped. At this stage, you can gently fold in a little more cream to bring it back to the right consistency.
- Can I prepare the cake base in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the sponge cake a day ahead. Just ensure it’s completely cool before wrapping tightly in cling film. Store it at room temperature until you're ready to frost.
- Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, but keep in mind that sugar not only provides sweetness but also affects moisture and texture. Start by reducing no more than 25% to see if you achieve the desired taste without sacrificing the cake’s structure.
- What's the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge. If your cake is iced with cream frosting, it's best enjoyed within 3 days for the freshest taste.
- Is it possible to double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure you use a larger pan or multiple pans to accommodate the extra volume. Also, watch out for baking time adjustments.