The Chocolate Cake with Caramel & Mascarpone is a delightful combination of rich chocolate cake layers, creamy mascarpone frosting, and luscious caramel sauce. This dessert is a heavenly treat for those with a sweet tooth and a love for the irresistible flavors of chocolate and caramel.

The history of chocolate cake can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where cocoa beans were prized for their luxurious and indulgent taste. However, the modern version of chocolate cake, as we know it today, evolved over centuries. The development of cocoa powder in the 19th century and the invention of baking powder in the mid-1800s played significant roles in the creation of chocolate cakes.

The addition of caramel and mascarpone to the traditional chocolate cake adds layers of complexity and sophistication to the dessert, making it an impressive centerpiece for special occasions and celebrations.

INGREDIENTS

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 150g of flour
• 30g of cocoa powdered Pantaguel
• 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 100g of softened butter
• 145g of brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 75g of melted chocolate
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 125ml of milk

For the Caramel:

• 100g yellow sugar
• 60ml of cream
• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Mascarpone Cream and Caramel:

• 250g mascarpone cheese
• 63g powdered sugar
• 100ml fresh cream
• Caramel (from the previous step)

For Chocolate Shavings:

• 100g chocolate

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C and prepare two 15cm cake trays with a parchment paper base, greased with butter, and sprinkled with a little powdered cocoa.
2. In a bowl, mix the sifted flour with cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar until it becomes a soft cream.
4. Add the egg and egg yolk to the butter mixture, whisk well, and then add the melted chocolate and vanilla. Mix well.
5. Alternating between the flour mixture and milk, keep incorporating the liquid mixture into the batter, ending with the flour.
6. Divide the batter between the two prepared cake trays. Since the mixture is thick, use a spoon to smooth it out.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and let the cakes rest for 10 minutes before taking them out of the trays and allowing them to cool completely.

For the Caramel:

1. In a small pan, heat the sugar, butter, and cream over medium heat.
2. Continuously stir the mixture with a spoon and let it simmer for about 3 minutes. Keep stirring to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
3. Remove from heat and add the vanilla and salt. Be careful as the caramel might be very hot and create bubbles.
4. Pour the caramel into a glass bottle and let it cool at room temperature.

For the Mascarpone Cream and Caramel:

1. Whisk the mascarpone with the powdered sugar and caramel until it becomes a soft and smooth cream.
2. Add the fresh cream and whisk for an additional 5 minutes until the cream is smooth again.

For Chocolate Shavings:

1. Place a tray in the fridge for a minimum of 15 minutes.
2. To temper the chocolate, melt half of the black chocolate in a bain-marie and break the other half into very small pieces.
3. When the chocolate is melted, add the chocolate pieces and mix until they all melt.
4. Pour the chocolate over the chilled tray and spread out a thin layer with the help of a spatula.
5. Wait a few minutes until the chocolate dries out. If needed, place the tray in the fridge again for less than 5 minutes.
6. Using a metallic spatula or a knife, create small chocolate shavings by making little rolls.

Assembly:

1. Place one of the cake layers on a cake base, remove the top, and spread a little bit of the mascarpone cream, chocolate shavings, and powdered cocoa.
2. Place the other half of the cake on top.
3. Spread the remaining mascarpone cream, chocolate shavings, and more powdered cocoa over the top and sides of the cake.

The Chocolate Cake with Caramel & Mascarpone is now ready to be served and enjoyed. This indulgent and visually stunning dessert will be the highlight of any gathering or celebration, leaving everyone savoring the delightful combination of chocolate, caramel, and mascarpone in each delectable bite.