If you’re looking for a cake that transcends the ordinary and leaves a lasting impression, this is the one for you. Taught by an Arabic chef and hailed as the best cake ever tasted, this recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of cottage cheese with a fluffy, tender cake batter. The ingredients are simple, yet the result is nothing short of spectacular. This Golden Cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a special celebration, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
Ingredients:
For the Cake Batter:
- 4 eggs
- 200 grams (1 cup) of sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) of vegetable oil
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) of kefir
- 280 grams (2 1/4 cups) of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
For the Cottage Cheese Filling:
- 300 grams (1 1/4 cups) of cottage cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the 4 eggs together with the 200 grams of sugar and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on high speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 5-7 minutes and is essential for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a light and airy cake.
- Slowly add the 120 ml of vegetable oil to the mixture, continuing to beat on medium speed. This helps to emulsify the batter and create a smooth consistency.
- Next, add the 120 ml of kefir. Kefir is a fermented milk product that adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake, enhancing its overall flavor.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the 280 grams of flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
- Prepare the Cottage Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the 300 grams of cottage cheese with 1 egg and 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and well combined. The cottage cheese filling adds a creamy, slightly tangy layer to the cake, contrasting beautifully with the sweet, fluffy batter.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Grease a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake pan with vegetable oil or line it with parchment paper. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Spoon the cottage cheese filling over the batter, spreading it out evenly.
- Pour the remaining cake batter over the cottage cheese layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Cake:
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cake has cooled, you can serve it as is or dust it with a little extra powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. This cake is perfect on its own but can also be paired with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This helps them combine more easily and evenly.
- Sifting Flour: Always sift your flour to avoid lumps and ensure a light, airy cake.
- Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Nutritional Benefits:
This Golden Cake offers a delightful balance of taste and nutrition:
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, and B12.
- Cottage Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein, adding nutritional value and a creamy texture to the cake.
- Kefir: Contains probiotics that can aid in digestion and contribute to gut health.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simplicity: The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Texture: The combination of a fluffy cake batter with a creamy cottage cheese filling creates a delightful contrast in every bite.
- Flavor: The kefir adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the cake, while the cottage cheese adds richness without being overpowering.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This cake is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products.
- Calcium-Rich: With the addition of cottage cheese, this cake is a good source of calcium, beneficial for bone health.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The whipped eggs and sugar create a light, airy batter, while the addition of kefir keeps the cake moist. The cottage cheese filling adds a layer of creaminess that makes each bite rich and satisfying. The balance of flavors and textures is what makes this cake truly special.
Conclusion:
This Golden Cake, taught by an Arabic chef, is more than just a dessert; it’s a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are combined with care and attention. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or enjoying it as a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to impress. Its rich, creamy filling and fluffy, tender cake make it a delight to eat and a pleasure to share. Try this recipe today and discover why it’s been hailed as the best cake ever tasted!