Cake Prague with chocolate cream and nuts

Prague Cake is a classic Eastern European dessert known for its rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture. This version features a decadent chocolate cream and crunchy nuts, making it a perfect indulgence for special occasions. Here’s a detailed recipe to create a delicious Prague Cake:

Prague Cake with Chocolate Cream and Nuts Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake Layers:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of lemon juice)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 6 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Nut Layer:

• 1 cup finely chopped nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For Garnish (Optional):

• Shaved chocolate
• Whole nuts
• Fresh berries or mint leaves

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, hot water, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The batter will be thin.

5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cream

1. Melt chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and heavy cream. Heat over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) or in the microwave, stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.

2. Mix butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy.

3. Combine: Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the butter mixture, beating until smooth and well combined. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Prepare the Nut Layer

1. Toast nuts: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped nuts and granulated sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the nuts are toasted and golden brown. Let cool.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of chocolate cream over the top.

2. Add nuts: Sprinkle a portion of the nut mixture over the chocolate cream.

3. Add second layer: Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining chocolate cream evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

4. Garnish: Decorate with additional shaved chocolate, whole nuts, and fresh berries or mint leaves if desired.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1-2 hours to allow the chocolate cream to set and the flavors to meld.

2. Slice and enjoy: Slice the cake and serve chilled. The rich chocolate cream combined with the crunchy nut layer makes for a delightful and satisfying dessert.

This Prague Cake with Chocolate Cream and Nuts is a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for a decadent dessert. Enjoy!