Creamy Currant Delight Cake

This delightful cake combines the rich flavors of cocoa and the fruity sweetness of currants to create a dessert your guests will adore. The sponge is moist and luscious, thanks to the combination of butter, sugar, and perfectly beaten eggs. A subtle touch of bittersweet chocolate glaze enhances the cake’s complexity, making each bite a tangent of flavors. The currants add a vibrant burst of flavor and a slightly tart contrast that entwines beautifully with the chocolate. With a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, it pleases both chocolate lovers and fruit dessert enthusiasts. The texture is light and airy, yet rich and indulgent, offering an irresistible treat. Its elegance makes it perfect for both casual gatherings and formal dinners. Easy to prepare, this cake is a sure success for any baker looking to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g butter
• 185 g sugar
• 4 eggs
• 250 g flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 cup water
• 4 tablespoons cocoa
• 130 g sweet currants

For the Glaze

• 100 g butter
• 120 g chocolate
• 3 tablespoons cocoa
• 3 tablespoons sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 75 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by preheating your oven to 185°C (365°F).
2. Melt 200 g butter in a saucepan over low heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with 185 g sugar until creamy and well-integrated.
4. Add 4 eggs, beating them one by one into the mixture for a smooth consistency.
5. In another bowl, sift together 250 g of flour, 4 tablespoons of cocoa, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, taking care to mix thoroughly without overbeating.
7. Stir in 1/2 cup of water to loosen the batter, creating a silky texture.
8. Gently fold in 130 g of sweet currants to evenly distribute them throughout the batter.
9. Allow the batter to rest for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
10. Prepare a cake pan by greasing it lightly and pour in the batter evenly.
11. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean.
12. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
13. After cooling, gently remove the cake from the mold and cut it horizontally into two even layers.
14. For the glaze, create a double boiler by simmering water in a pot and placing a heatproof bowl over it.
15. Add 100 g butter, 120 g chocolate, 3 tablespoons cocoa, and 3 tablespoons sugar to the bowl.
16. Stir the glaze ingredients consistently until they melt into a smooth and glossy texture.
17. Pour half of the glaze between the cake layers and reassemble the cake.
18. Coat the top and sides of the cake with the remaining glaze for a shiny finish.
19. Decorate with additional currants for a touch of color and added flavor.
20. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tips

• For extra flavor, try incorporating vanilla extract into the batter.
• Substitute currants with fresh raspberries or blueberries for a different taste.
• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better integration.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 per slice
• Protein: 5 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g

Variations

• For a gluten-free option, use almond flour.
• Substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Create a marble effect by only partially mixing the cocoa into the batter.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent experience.
• Pair with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a cup of fresh brewed coffee.
• Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of mint.

Best Places

1. Boulangerie Poilâne - Known for its traditional French baked goods. Location: 8 Rue du Cherche-Midi, Paris, France
2. Pâtisserie Sadaharu Aoki - Famous for its unique Japanese-French fusion desserts. Location: 35 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, France
3. Dominique Ansel Bakery - Home of the cronut, offering innovative pastries. Location: 189 Spring St, New York, USA
4. Schwarzwaldstuben - Known for its gourmet desserts and traditional German pastries. Location: Tucholskystraße 48, Berlin, Germany
5. Café Sacher - Celebrated for the original Sachertorte. Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, Vienna, Austria
6. Café Demel - Historic café with a vast selection of cakes and pastries. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria
7. Bakery Tartine - Known for its artisanal bread and exquisite pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA
8. Kanemasu - Known for its quality sweets and traditional Japanese wagashi. Location: 3 Chome-3-2 Ginza, Tokyo, Japan
9. Café Central - A Viennese institution famous for its opulent desserts. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria
10. Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers luxurious pastries and rich history. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta 9, Milan, Italy