Simple Cocoa Cake with Berry Sauce

This simple cocoa cake with berry sauce is a delightful dessert that's easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. It combines a rich and moist cocoa cake with a refreshing berry sauce, perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like flour, cream, sugar, and cocoa, the cake is a treat for chocolate lovers. The berry sauce adds a tangy sweetness that complements the chocolate perfectly. Fresh or frozen berries can be used, making this recipe versatile and ideal year-round. Topped with white chocolate, fresh berries, and mint leaves, the cake is visually appealing and delicious. Served with ice cream on the side enhances the experience, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. This recipe is a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for both casual dinners and special celebrations, this cocoa cake is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy this combination of rich chocolate and fresh berries for a delightful end to any meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups flour
• 1 cup cream
• 1 cup sugar (can be slightly less)
• 3 eggs
• 3 tablespoons cocoa
• 3 teaspoons cocoa
• 1/2 cup nuts
• Raisins (optional)
• Muesli (optional)
• Cinnamon

Sauce Ingredients:

• Fresh or frozen berries
• Sugar to taste

For Decoration:

• White chocolate
• Ice cream
• Fresh berries
• Mint leaves

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures the cake bakes evenly.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, 3 tablespoons cocoa, and a pinch of cinnamon.
3. Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy, then mix in the cream until well combined.
4. Combine the dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously to form a smooth batter.
5. Optional additions: Fold in nuts, raisins, and muesli if you like added texture and flavor.
6. Grease a cake tin: Transfer the cake batter into a greased tin, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake in the oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Prepare the berry sauce: While the cake bakes, bring your chosen berries (thawed if frozen) to a gentle simmer in a saucepan.
9. Sweeten the sauce: Gradually add sugar to the berries until you reach the desired sweetness level.
10. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens, then set aside to cool.
11. Check the cake: When baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes in the tin.
12. Carefully remove the cake from the tin and place it on a serving plate.
13. Arrange the berry sauce on the serving plate beside the cake or pour it gently over the top.
14. Add ice cream: Spoon a generous scoop of ice cream next to the cake for added indulgence.
15. Decorate with grated white chocolate sprinkled on top for sweetness and elegance.
16. Garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
17. Serve warm: The cake is best enjoyed while slightly warm, letting the ice cream melt gently.
18. Store leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; the cake will remain moist for up to three days.
19. Reheat slices as needed: Gently warm in the microwave for a few seconds to restore the cake's softness.
20. Enjoy the bites and share the delightful taste with family and friends.

Tips

• Fresh vs. Frozen Berries: Use what you have on hand; fresh are more vibrant, but frozen is convenient.
• Sugar Adjustment: Taste as you go when sweetening your sauce, as berry sweetness can vary.
• Nut Options: Substitute with almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts to cater to preferences.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 350 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 14g
• Carbs: 48g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Use coconut cream and a flaxseed meal to replace eggs.
• Dairy-Free: Opt for almond or coconut milk instead of cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Add a scoop of gelato for a more luxurious dessert option.

Best Places

• The Chocolate Room - A haven for chocolate lovers offering exquisite cocoa treats. Location: 28 Broadway, New York, USA.
• Café Central - Renowned for its pastries and classic European charm. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Café de Flore - A quaint spot in the heart of Paris known for its desserts. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
• Chocolatiers at Café Sacher - Famous for its Sacher Torte paired with rich coffee. Location: Philharmonikerstrasse 4, Vienna, Austria.
• Max Brenner - Offers a full chocolate experience with decadent desserts. Location: 841 Broadway, New York, USA.
• Cacao Lane - Known for its creative cocoa-based dishes and drinks. Location: 371 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne, Australia.
• Konditorei Buchwald - Offers traditional German cakes and sweets. Location: Bartningallee 29, Berlin, Germany.
• Pierre Marcolini - A chic spot for upscale chocolate indulgence. Location: Rue des Minimes 1, Brussels, Belgium.
• Chocolatería San Ginés - Popular for churros and chocolate. Location: Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, Madrid, Spain.
• Elephant Café - A cozy spot where literature and desserts meet. Location: 21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, Scotland.