Cake Prague with chocolate cream

A Prague Cake is a classic dessert with layers of sponge cake, rich chocolate cream, and sometimes a hint of coffee or liqueur. It’s elegant and delicious. Here’s a recipe to make a Prague Cake with chocolate cream:

Ingredients:

For the Sponge Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Cream:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) coffee (optional, for soaking the cake layers)
• Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sponge Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Beat the eggs and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and fluffy.
3. Sift the flour and baking powder together and gently fold into the egg mixture.
4. Mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Chocolate Cream:

1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
2. Add the chocolate chips to the hot cream and let it sit for a minute. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
3. Sift in the cocoa powder and stir until combined.
4. Add sugar and vanilla extract, then chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until it thickens.

3. Assemble the Cake:

1. Level the cakes if needed, then cut each cake in half horizontally to create four layers.
2. If using coffee, lightly brush the top of each layer with the coffee to add flavor and moisture.
3. Place the first layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of chocolate cream over the top.
4. Repeat with the remaining layers, spreading chocolate cream between each layer.
5. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining chocolate cream.
6. Decorate with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder, if desired.

4. Chill and Serve:

1. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the cream firm up.
2. Slice and serve!

Enjoy your Prague Cake with chocolate cream—it’s a rich and decadent treat perfect for special occasions or just a delightful dessert!