Category: Recipes

CREAM FILLED CASTELLA CAKE

INGREDIENTS:

40g butter
40g milk
30g sugar
1g salt
20g corn syrup
4 yolks
Some vanilla extract
Cake flour 80g
Baking powder 2g
4 Egg whites
60g sugar
200g fresh cream
20g sugar

METHOD:

1. Prepare the baking paper in a mini-round baking tin then separate 4 eggs into white and yolk separately.

2. Prepare hot water bowl. (double boiling) then melt 40g butter and 40ml of milk in a

3. bowl.

4. Add 30g of sugar, 1g of salt and 20g of corn syrup and mix well until the butter melts then remove the hot water

5. bowl and add 4 yolks and mix well. Add some vanilla extract for flavouring and mix it in.

6. Sift 80g of cake flour and 29 of baking powder together and mix well.

7. Put 4 whites in another bowl and beat it until foamy then add 60g of sugar and beat it until the meringue tip is

8. slightly bent.

9. Add 1/2 meringue into the egg yolk batter and mix gently until combined then add all remaining meringues and

10. mix gently. so, that the foam does not crumble.

11. Divide the batter into prepared mini-round tins. Before putting it in the oven, drop the tin 1 to 2 times onto the

12. bench to remove large bubbles.

13. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes in an oven preheated to 340 degrees Fahrenheit (170 C). 9. Once cooked, and while

14. still in the tin, drop the castella from a height of 30cm onto the bench.

15. Make a hole in the centre of the castella and use a small spoon to make space for fresh whipped cream. Fill the

16. castella with fresh whipped cream, dust with powdered sugar and serve.

17. Making fresh whipped cream

18. Put 200g of fresh heavy cream and 20g of sugar in a bowl and beat it. 2. The cream will be separated if you

19. overbeat. so, stop when it becomes slightly thick.

20. ENJOY YOUR CREAM FILLED CASTELLA CAKE

Lemon Sponge Cake with Lemon Frosting

Ingredients:

For the Lemon Sponge Cake:

• • All-Purpose Flour (Maida): 1 + 1/2 cups (180g)
  • Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon (3g)

• • Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon (4g)
  • Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon (2g)
  • Vegetable Oil: 3/4 cup (180mL)

• • Castor Sugar: 1 + 1/2 cups (300g)
  • Yogurt/Hung Curd: 1 cup (285g)
  • Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon

• Lemon Juice: 5 tablespoons (75mL)
• Milk: 1/2 cup (120mL)

For the Lemon Frosting:

• • Powdered Sugar: 1 cup (120g)
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30mL)
  • Lemon Zest: 1/2 teaspoon

• Vegan Butter or Margarine: 1/4 cup (60g), softened

Directions:

1. 1. Preheat the Oven:
      • • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

       

   2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
      • • In a large mixing bowl, sift together 1 + 1/2 cups (180g) of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
        • Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and mix well to infuse the flour with a natural citrus aroma.

       

   3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
      • • In a separate bowl, combine 3/4 cup (180mL) of vegetable oil and 1 + 1/2 cups (300g) of castor sugar. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
        • Add 1 cup (285g) of yogurt or hung curd, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 5 tablespoons (75mL) of lemon juice. Mix until well combined.

       

   4. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures:
      • • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, alternating with 1/2 cup (120mL) of milk.
        • Gently fold the batter using a spatula or whisk until there are no lumps. Be careful not to overmix.

       

   5. Pour Batter into Pan:
      • • Pour the prepared batter into the lined cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
        • Tap the pan gently on the countertop to remove any air bubbles.

       

   6. Bake the Cake:
      • Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.

1. 1. Cool the Cake:
      • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
      • Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

1. 1. Prepare the Lemon Frosting:
      • • In a medium bowl, beat 1/4 cup (60g) of softened vegan butter or margarine until creamy.
        • Gradually add 1 cup (120g) of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons (30mL) of lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest.
        • Beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or lemon juice if needed.

       

   2. Assemble the Cake:
      • • Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the lemon frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or palette knife.
        • Decorate with additional lemon zest or slices if desired.

       

   3. Serve:
      • Slice the cake and serve it as a delightful dessert for any occasion. The zesty flavor and soft texture will surely impress your guests.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  • Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.

• Garnish with fresh berries for added flavor and color.
• Enjoy as a light dessert after a hearty meal.

Cooking Tips:

• • Make sure the yogurt is at room temperature before mixing it into the batter.
  • Use fresh lemons for the zest and juice to enhance the cake’s flavor.
  • If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest in both the cake and frosting.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Lemon: High in vitamin C, boosts immunity, and aids digestion.
  • Yogurt: Provides probiotics for gut health and adds moisture to the cake.

• Vegetable Oil: Contains healthy fats and keeps the cake tender.

Dietary Information:

• • Vegetarian

• Contains gluten and dairy
• Can be made vegan by substituting yogurt with a plant-based alternative

Banana Oatmeal Bake with Cocoa and Nuts

Ingredients

• • Oatmeal: 1 cup
  • Milk: 150 ml
  • Eggs: 2

• • Bananas: 2, mashed
  • Sweetener: 1 tsp (honey, maple syrup, or your choice of sweetener)
  • Cocoa Powder: 1 tbsp

• • Baking Powder: 1 tsp
  • Nuts: 40 g, chopped (e.g., walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
  • Avocado Oil: for greasing

Directions

1. 1. Prepare the Batter:
      • In a mixing bowl, combine oatmeal, milk, eggs, mashed bananas, sweetener, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Stir until well mixed.
   2. Add Nuts:
      • • Fold in the chopped nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

       

   3. Grease the Baking Dish:
      • Lightly grease a baking dish or muffin tin with avocado oil to prevent sticking.

1. Pour and Smooth:
   • Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake:
   • • Preheat oven to 180°C (360°F).

    

   • Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool and Serve:
   • • Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

    

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
  • Pair with fresh berries for added flavor and color.

• • Top with a sprinkle of extra nuts for crunch.
  • Serve with a side of almond or peanut butter for extra protein.
  • Enjoy with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a complete breakfast.

Cooking Tips

• • Use ripe bananas for a naturally sweet flavor.
  • Adjust the level of sweetener based on your preference and the ripeness of the bananas.
  • Substitute avocado oil with coconut oil or olive oil if preferred.

• Add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra warmth and flavor.
• If using a muffin tin, reduce baking time to 20-25 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Oatmeal: High in fiber, great for digestion and heart health.

• • Bananas: Provide natural sweetness, potassium, and vitamin B6.
  • Eggs: Add protein and aid in binding the ingredients.
  • Nuts: A source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: Suitable for a vegetarian diet.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats if needed.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with a plant-based milk alternative.

• No Refined Sugar: Uses natural sweetener.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving Estimate)

• • Calories: ~180 kcal
  • Protein: 5 g

• • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Fiber: 3 g

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or enjoy cold.

Classic Homemade Panettone

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• • Eggs: 3 large
  • Sugar: ½ cup (100 ml)
  • Butter or Margarine: 4 tablespoons, melted

• • Warm Water: 250 ml
  • Panettone Essence (or Vanilla Extract): 1 tablespoon
  • Dry Biological Yeast: 1 package (10 g)

• Unbleached Wheat Flour: 500 g, sifted
• Salt: A pinch

Add-Ins:

• • Raisins: 150 g

• Candied Fruit: 150 g

Steps to Make Classic Homemade Panettone

1. Activate the Yeast

1. 1. In a small bowl, dissolve the dry yeast in warm water (not too hot, around 110°F or 45°C). Add 1 teaspoon of sugar from the measured amount to help activate the yeast.
   2. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.

2. Prepare the Dough

1. 1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until smooth and slightly frothy.
   2. Add the melted butter, panettone essence (or vanilla extract), and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
   3. Gradually add the sifted flour, alternating with the yeast mixture. Combine until a sticky dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

1. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle small amounts of flour while kneading, but avoid overflouring to keep the bread light.

4. Incorporate the Add-Ins

1. 1. Flatten the dough slightly and sprinkle the raisins and candied fruit over it.
   2. Gently knead the dough to evenly distribute the add-ins.

5. First Proofing

1. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
2. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

6. Prepare for Baking

1. 1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air.

1. Shape it into a smooth ball and place it into a prepared panettone mold or a tall, round baking pan lined with parchment paper.
2. Cover loosely and let it proof again for about 30-45 minutes, until it rises slightly above the mold.

7. Bake the Panettone

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. 1. Brush the top of the dough with a little melted butter for a golden crust.
   2. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Check at the 25-minute mark—if the top is browning too quickly, tent it with foil.
   3. The panettone is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and Serve

1. Let the panettone cool in the mold for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Slice and serve as desired, or wrap it tightly to preserve freshness.

Chocolate Almond Oatmeal Cake with Cottage Cheese and Cherry Topping

Ingredients:

For the Base:

• • Oatmeal flour: 80 g

• • Nuts (almonds): 25 g (crushed or chopped)
  • Cocoa powder: 40 g
  • Salt: 1 g

• • Sugar-free syrup or honey: 70 g
  • Milk: 20 g
  • Vegetable oil: for greasing

For the Filling:

• • Cottage cheese: 400 g
  • Eggs: 2 pcs (room temperature)

• Sugar-free syrup, honey, or sweetener: 100 g
• Vanillin: 0.5 g

For the Cherry Topping:

• • Cherries: 150 g
  • Sweetener: 25 g
  • Starch: 15 g (dissolved in water)

Directions:

1. 1. Prepare the Base:
      • In a mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal flour, crushed almonds, cocoa powder, salt, sugar-free syrup or honey, and milk. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
      • Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil, then press the dough into the bottom of the dish to form the base.

1. 1. Make the Filling:
      • In another bowl, mix the cottage cheese, eggs, sugar-free syrup or sweetener, and vanillin. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
      • Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the base in the baking dish.

1. 1. Bake:
      • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
      • Bake the cake for 40 minutes or until the top is golden and set.

1. 1. Cherry Topping:
      • In a small saucepan, heat the cherries with sweetener over medium heat.
      • Dissolve starch in a small amount of water, then add it to the cherry mixture. Cook, stirring, until the mixture thickens and the cherries are coated with a syrupy sauce.

1. 1. Serve:
      • Once the cake has cooled slightly, spread the cherry topping over the cake.
      • Slice and serve. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips:

• • Ensure the eggs are at room temperature to make the filling smoother and fluffier.
  • You can replace the almonds with any other type of nuts or omit them for a nut-free version.
  • For a more decadent taste, use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Oatmeal flour is a great source of dietary fiber, which helps in maintaining digestive health.
  • Cottage cheese adds a high amount of protein and calcium, making this dessert nutritious and filling.
  • Cherries are rich in antioxidants, which can have anti-inflammatory benefits.

• The recipe is low in sugar due to the use of sugar-free syrup or honey.

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• The cake can be frozen without the cherry topping for up to 1 month. Add the topping after reheating.