Ingredients
Spinach Sponge Cake
Soaking Syrup
Strawberry Compote
Lime Mint Filling
Cheese Cream
Instructions
Step 1
Mix *flour*, *baking powder*, and *salt* in a bowl.
In a blender, puree *spinach*, *vegetable oil*, and *lemon juice* until smooth.
Whip *eggs* and *sugar* on high speed for 5 to 6 minutes, until they form a light and fluffy mixture. Gently fold in the spinach mixture.
Gradually add the sifted *flour mixture*, mixing well each time with a spatula.
Divide the batter into two 16 cm (6.5 inches) round cake pans. Bake at 170-180°C (340-355°F) for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely in the pans before removing.
Step 2
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and heat until the *sugar* dissolves completely. Let it cool down.
Step 3
Bloom the *gelatin* in cold water.
In a saucepan, bring the *strawberry puree* and *sugar* to a boil, and simmer for a couple of minutes. Stir in the bloomed *gelatin* until dissolved. Pour into two 14 cm (5.5 inches) rings and freeze until set.
Step 4
Bloom the *gelatin* in cold water.
Heat the *cream* to boiling, add the bloomed *gelatin*, and stir well. Pour over the *white chocolate* and add *mint leaves*, *lime juice*, and *zest*. Blend using an immersion blender, then add the *butter* and blend again. Pour into a 16 cm (6.5 inches) ring and freeze until ready to use.
Step 5
*Chill* all the ingredients in a mixer bowl and whip until a firm and stable cream forms.
Step 6
Slice the *sponge cakes* into four layers total.
Layer as follows, soaking each layer: *sponge*, *cream*, *compote* layer, *cream*, *sponge*, more *cream*, the frozen *lime filling*, *cream*, *sponge*, *cream*, another *compote* layer, *cream*, finish with *sponge*.
Servings
For a **gourmet touch**, drizzle a thin layer of balsamic reduction around the plate before serving, amplifying the fresh strawberry profile. Or, why not place freshly sliced strawberries and dollops of cream on top? 🍓
If you want the cake to cater to a younger crowd's curiosity, let them **assemble their slices with different layers!** Each bite becomes a surprise adventure on a plate. 🥳
Equipment
For creating a smooth spinach mixture, ensuring every bite offers a consistent flavor.
Use a large one to combine your dry ingredients and whip up those fluffy egg-sugar mixtures.
Ideal for gently folding in flour to prevent deflated batters.
Make sure to grease them well for easy release of the sponge layers.
Perfect for melting sugar syrup and strawberry puree to their right consistency.
Great for making uniform layers of compote and mint lime filling.
To achieve a stable and airy cream cheese frosting, let it do the heavy lifting for you.
Variations
Gluten-Free Variation:
Swap regular flour for an equal blend of almond flour and coconut flour. Be sure to sift well to prevent lumps in your batter. Enjoy the nutty twist this brings to your cake layers! 🥥
Vegan Option:
Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs — simply mix 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds with 6 tablespoons of water and let it sit until thickened. Use coconut cream for rich texture and swap gelatin with agar-agar for the compote. This version is not just cruelty-free but also delightfully delicious! 🌿
Faq
- Why does my cake fall flat?
Your spinach purée might be too heavy or not well-puréed, leading to a dense texture. Ensure to blend it thoroughly and fold gently!
- Can I use frozen spinach?
Fresh is best for this recipe! Frozen spinach has more moisture and could alter the cake’s texture. If you must use frozen, defrost and drain it well.
- What can I do if my compote is too runny?
You can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or add a little more gelatin to help set it better.
- How to ensure the layers stay together?
Refrigerate each assembled layer briefly to stabilize before adding the next. This allows each component to hold its shape better.
- How do I achieve a smooth finish on the cream cheese frosting?
Ensure all your ingredients are sufficiently cold and beat them in a cool room. Use a hot knife to smooth out the final touches.
- What other herbs could complement the cake's flavors?
Basil or lemon thyme could add intriguing notes that pair wonderfully with strawberries and lime.