Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake

Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake. This dessert is a perfect combination of chocolate, strawberries, and a hint of port wine, creating a delightful treat for any occasion.

History

The origins of Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake are not well-documented, but it is believed to have been inspired by the classic combination of chocolate and strawberries. The addition of port wine adds a sophisticated twist to this traditional dessert.

Ingredients

0.33 cup butter or margarine
1 cup (6 oz (170 g)) semisweet chocolate pieces, divided
0.5 cup port wine, divided
2 eggs, separated
0.5 cup sugar, divided
0.5 cup flour
1 pt (473 ml) basket fresh California strawberries, stemmed and sliced
1 cup whipped cream, sweetened

How to prepare

In a double boiler over simmering water, melt the butter and 0.5 cup of chocolate with 0.33 cup of port.
Stir and allow to cool.
In a mixer bowl, beat the egg yolks with 6 tbsp of sugar until thick and pale.
Gradually beat in the chocolate mixture.
Mix in the flour and the remaining chocolate.
In another bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining sugar just until stiff peaks form; gradually fold into the chocolate batter to blend.
Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round layer cake pan.
Bake in a 325-degree oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then loosen and invert it onto a plate.
Using the back of a spoon, press a shallow indentation into the center of the cake.
Toss the strawberries with the remaining port and spoon them into the center of the cake.
Pipe or spoon whipped cream around the edge of the cake.
Yield: 6 servings.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try using white chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate. You can also experiment with different types of wine, such as red wine or raspberry liqueur, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to properly grease and flour the cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking.

- Folding the egg whites into the batter gently will help maintain the cake's light and airy texture.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the strawberries and whipped cream to prevent them from melting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake with a glass of port wine for a truly decadent experience. This dessert pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a successful Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake is to properly fold the egg whites into the batter to maintain a light and fluffy texture. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to achieve the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have port wine on hand, you can substitute it with another type of sweet dessert wine or even a fruit juice for a non-alcoholic version of the cake.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cake batter in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. The strawberries and whipped cream can also be prepared ahead of time and assembled just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake with fresh mint leaves or chocolate shavings for an elegant finishing touch. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for added decadence.

Pairing Recommendations

This dessert pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine. For a refreshing option, try serving it with a cup of hot chocolate or a fruit-infused cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake is approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dessert is rich in fats, with each serving providing around 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake offers a moderate amount of protein, with each serving containing about 5 grams.

Vitamins and minerals

While this dessert is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, the fresh strawberries provide a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, dairy (whipped cream), and gluten (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Overall, Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content.

Summary

Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake is a luxurious dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, strawberries, and port wine. With a light and fluffy texture and a decadent topping of whipped cream, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy this indulgent treat for a special occasion or as a delightful ending to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit a quaint little bakery in the heart of the city. As soon as I walked in, the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods filled my nostrils, and I knew I was in for a treat.

I scanned the display case filled with an assortment of decadent cakes and pastries, trying to decide which one to indulge in. That's when I spotted it - a beautiful Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake. The cake was a work of art, with layers of rich chocolate cake sandwiched between velvety smooth strawberry mousse, all drizzled with a generous amount of port wine glaze.

I couldn't resist ordering a slice to enjoy with a cup of coffee. As I took my first bite, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The rich chocolate paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy strawberries, and the port wine added a depth of flavor that I had never experienced before.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this cake myself. I struck up a conversation with the bakery owner, who graciously shared the recipe with me. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family and was a closely guarded secret. I felt honored that she was willing to trust me with such a treasure.

I rushed home that day, eager to try my hand at making the Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake. I gathered all the ingredients - flour, sugar, eggs, cocoa powder, strawberries, port wine, and of course, lots of love. I followed the recipe to a tee, carefully measuring out each ingredient and mixing them together with care.

As the cake baked in the oven, the sweet scent of chocolate and strawberries filled my kitchen, reminding me of that fateful day at the bakery. When the timer finally went off, I pulled the cake out of the oven and let it cool before adding the final touch - the port wine glaze.

I drizzled the glaze over the top of the cake, watching as it cascaded down the sides in a beautiful, glossy cascade. I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into a slice of my creation. And when I did, I was transported back to that bakery, savoring every bite of the rich, decadent cake.

From that day on, the Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake became a staple in my baking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, birthdays, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from those lucky enough to taste it. The cake became a symbol of love and tradition in our family, passed down from generation to generation.

I am grateful to that bakery owner for sharing her family recipe with me, allowing me to create something truly special in my own kitchen. The Chocolate Strawberry Port Cake will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy that comes from sharing delicious food with loved ones. And every time I take a bite of that cake, I am transported back to that warm summer day when I discovered a treasure that would bring so much happiness to those around me.