Ingredients

Shortbread Layers

200 grams (1 cup) all-purpose flour
100 grams (0.5 cup) unsalted butter, softened
50 grams (0.25 cup) granulated sugar
1 egg yolk
Pinch of salt
We recommend:

Souffle

300 grams (1.5 cups) granulated sugar
150 grams (1 cup) butter
100 milliliters (0.5 cup) milk
10 grams (2 teaspoons) gelatin
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
We recommend:

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Shortbread Layers

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine *all-purpose flour*, *unsalted butter*, *granulated sugar*, and *egg yolk* until the mixture forms a soft dough.

Knead the dough briefly. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1 centimeter (0.5 inches). Cut out two circles to fit your cake pan. *Place* them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2

Make the Souffle

Suspend the *gelatin* in *2 tablespoons of water* and allow it to bloom for about 10 minutes. Heat the *milk* until warm, then add the bloomed gelatin and stir until completely dissolved. Set aside.

In a mixing bowl, beat *butter* and *granulated sugar* until light and fluffy. Gradually add the gelatin mixture, followed by the *vanilla extract*. Mix thoroughly.

Divide the souffle mixture between the *shortbread layers*. Let it set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up.

Step 3

Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

Melt the *dark chocolate* and *unsalted butter* together over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until smooth.

Once the souffle has set, pour the melted chocolate glaze evenly over the top of the cake. Use a spatula to spread the glaze to the edges. Let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature to set.

Step 4

Assemble the Cake

Once the *chocolate glaze* has set, gently remove the cake from the baking form. Ensure both the *shortbread layers* and *souffle* have well combined by refrigerating the cake for an additional hour.

Serve the cake chilled and enjoy the light, airy texture of the Bird's Milk delight!

Servings

Picture this: you've just cut into the perfect slice of "Bird's Milk" Cake, and it's ready to dazzle your taste buds. But how should you serve it? Here are some ideas to elevate your cake serving experience: **For a Classic Touch:** Pair your cake with a simple cup of black tea or a freshly brewed espresso. The bittersweet notes of coffee or tea highlight the cake's creamy sweetness beautifully. ☕️ **Add Some Zest:** Serve with a side of fresh berries or a berry coulis. The tartness of raspberries or the sweetness of strawberries provides a vibrant contrast to the cake's flavor. 🍓 **Seasonal Delight:** In winter, a drizzle of warm chocolate ganache adds comfort and richness. In summer, a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms this classic cake into a refreshing treat. 🍨 **Touch of Elegance:** Decorate the plate with a dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios for extra texture and visual appeal. These small touches can turn a simple slice into a show-stopping dessert! ✨

Equipment

Variations

Looking to adapt this recipe for specific dietary needs? Let's explore how you can make it **gluten-free** or **vegan** without compromising on flavor! 🌿 **Gluten-Free Option:** Swap out the regular flour in the shortcrust with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients like baking powder are gluten-free certified. You may need to adjust the amounts slightly for the perfect texture. **Vegan Transformation:** Replace eggs in the souffle with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) to achieve a similar light texture. Use plant-based margarine instead of butter for the shortcrust and choose a non-dairy milk alternative for the recipe. **Sweet Success:** Ensure your chocolate glaze is dairy-free by selecting vegan chocolate chips or a certified vegan chocolate bar. The result is a cake that’s every bit as indulgent and inclusive for everyone to enjoy! 🌱

Faq

  • How do I know when the souffle is set properly?

    The souffle should be firm to the touch and not wobble when shaken. It should hold its shape when sliced but still be moist and airy inside.

  • What’s the best way to prevent my shortcrust from falling apart?

    Ensure your butter is cold when mixing the dough, and allow the crust to cool completely before attempting to remove it from the pan.

  • Can I add flavors to the souffle?

    Absolutely! For an intermediate twist, try folding in vanilla bean paste or citrus zests, like lemon or orange, to enhance the flavor profile.

  • What’s the secret to a glossy chocolate glaze?

    Use high-quality chocolate and add a small amount of vegetable oil to the glaze mixture. Stir continuously to keep the texture smooth and shiny.

  • How can I ensure an even cake layer?

    For experienced bakers, use a cake leveler or a long serrated knife to trim the cake layers evenly before adding the souffle and glaze.

  • What’s the best technique for layering the souffle and the cake base?

    Pour the souffle over the cooled crust while it's still in the springform pan for neat layers. Gently tap the pan to ensure even distribution and avoid bubbles.

Nutrition facts

Heavenly Bird's Milk Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
Recipe Yield:1 cake
Calories:Approximate calorie range for the entire cake
Calories (Min - Max):3500 - 4000
Total Fat:200g
Saturated Fat:120g
Protein:50g
Total Carbohydrate:450g
Total Sugars:350g