A Cake That Will Be the Star of the Winter Holidays

Preparing this dessert is surprisingly simple, yet it has a strikingly elegant look.

In the culinary world, every season sets its own trends, and winter 2025 is no exception. This year, the most fashionable dessert that will grace any festive table is the "Winter Comfort Cake." This masterpiece combines a delicate taste, luxurious appearance, and an aroma reminiscent of snow, a roaring fireplace, and warm hugs.

Preparing this dessert is surprisingly simple, yet it has a strikingly elegant look. It’s perfect for all winter celebrations, and your guests are guaranteed to be delighted!

Ingredients:

For the sponge cake:
Eggs – 4 pcs.
Sugar – 120 g
Flour – 160 g
Baking powder – 1 tsp
Cocoa powder – 30 g
Oil – 50 ml
Milk – 50 ml
For the cream:
Chilled heavy cream (33%) – 500 ml
Powdered sugar – 120-150 g
Vanilla extract – 2 tsp
Cream cheese – 500 g
For soaking:
Apricot jam – 2-3 tbsp
Water – 20-30 ml
For the ganache:
Dark chocolate – 80 g
Heavy cream (33%) – 120 ml
For decoration:
Shredded coconut – optional
Powdered sugar – 1-2 tbsp
Heavy cream (33%) – 150 ml

Preparation Steps:

Sponge Cake:

Sift the flour and baking powder together.
Beat the eggs with sugar until a thick, frothy consistency forms.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the eggs, mixing until smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix cocoa powder, milk, and oil. Add 3 tbsp of the batter, mix gently, then combine with the main batter.
Line a 20 cm round baking pan with parchment paper, pour in the batter.
Bake for 30 minutes at 170°C (340°F). Cool the cake completely and slice into 4 even layers.
Soaking Syrup:
Mix apricot jam with water.
Blend into a smooth puree, bring to a boil, and let cool.

Ganache:

Chop the chocolate into small pieces.
Pour hot cream over the chocolate and stir until smooth.
Cover with plastic wrap in direct contact with the surface and let cool to a butter-like consistency.
Cream:
Whip the chilled cream until stiff peaks form, gradually adding powdered sugar.
Add the cream cheese and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.

Assembling the Cake:

Soak each sponge layer with the apricot syrup.
Spread the cream evenly on each layer.
Top the cake with the ganache, smoothing it out with a knife.
Cover the sides with cream and decorate with shredded coconut or as desired.
Your cake is ready! Its delicate taste and enchanting aroma will bring true winter comfort to your festive table.