Mađarica - Croatian Layered Chocolate Cake

Ingredients

• For the chocolate sponge cake: For the chocolate sponge cake:
• 6 large eggs 6 large eggs
• 150g (1 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour 150g (1 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 50g (1/2 cup) cocoa powder 50g (1/2 cup) cocoa powder
• 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the chocolate cream filling: For the chocolate cream filling:
• 300g (10.5 oz) dark chocolate, chopped 300g (10.5 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
• 250g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened 250g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 200g (1 1/2 cups) powdered sugar 200g (1 1/2 cups) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the chocolate glaze: For the chocolate glaze:
• 150g (5.3 oz) dark chocolate, chopped 150g (5.3 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
• 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup 2 tablespoons corn syrup

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 28g, 17g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 47g, 35g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a rectangular baking pan with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. 4.
   Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
5. 5.
   Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
6. 6.
   Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. 7.
   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
8. 8.
   Meanwhile, prepare the chocolate cream filling. Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
9. 9.
   In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add the melted chocolate and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
10. 10.
    Once the cake has cooled, carefully remove it from the pan and cut it into three equal rectangular layers.
11. 11.
    Place one layer of the cake on a serving platter and spread a generous amount of the chocolate cream filling on top.
12. 12.
    Repeat the process with the remaining layers, finishing with a layer of chocolate cream filling on top.
13. 13.
    Prepare the chocolate glaze by melting the dark chocolate, butter, and corn syrup in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until smooth and glossy.
14. 14.
    Pour the chocolate glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
15. 15.
    Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the glaze to set.
16. 16.
    Once chilled, slice and serve the Mađarica cake, savoring each decadent bite.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dark chocolate — Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids for the best flavor and texture.
• Cocoa powder — Choose unsweetened cocoa powder to enhance the rich chocolate taste of the cake.
• Butter — Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature for easy incorporation into the chocolate cream filling.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve even layers, use a ruler or a cake leveler to trim the cake layers.
• For an extra touch of flavor, add a splash of rum or coffee liqueur to the chocolate cream filling.
• Decorate the top of the cake with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for an elegant finish.
• Serve the Mađarica cake chilled for the best taste and texture.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve each slice of Mađarica cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate flavors.

Presentation advice

Present the Mađarica cake on a beautiful cake stand or platter, garnished with fresh berries or mint leaves for an eye-catching display.