Checkerboard Cake is a delightful dessert that never fails to impress. Its striking pattern of alternating colors brings a playful touch to any gathering, making it a favorite for birthdays, tea parties, or just to satisfy a sweet craving. With layers that are simple yet elegant, this cake is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The combination of light cheese and sweet batter creates a moist texture, while the delicate sweetness makes it a perfect treat to enjoy with coffee or tea.
What Goes into This Checkerboard Cake
To create your masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 2/3 cups (200g) all-purpose flour
- 7 tablespoons (100ml) seed oil
- 3/4 cup minus 1 tablespoon (about 90g) powdered sweetener or 3/4 cup (150g) normal sugar
- 1/4 cup plus 1 1/2 teaspoons (75ml) milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 pinch of salt
- Icing sugar for dusting
- 8.8 ounces (250g) light cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 2 teaspoons powdered sweetener or 2 tablespoons regular sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 egg
How to Make Checkerboard Cake
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Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, crack the eggs and add a pinch of salt along with the sweetener. Whisk everything together until it becomes frothy. Gradually incorporate the oil and milk into the mixture. Afterward, sift in the flour, baking powder, and vanilla sugar. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.
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Set Up the Mold: Line a 22×22 centimeter (about 9×9 inch) square mold with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared mold and level it out evenly.
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Make the Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, combine the light cheese, one egg, sweetener, cornstarch, and vanilla sugar. Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, then transfer it into a piping bag.
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Create the Checkerboard Pattern: Use the piping bag to carefully pipe the cheese mixture onto the batter in a checkerboard pattern. This will create an eye-catching design once it’s baked.
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Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the mold in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. Once it’s done, remove the cake from the mold and let it cool.
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Finish and Serve: Once the cake is cool, dust it with icing sugar for a lovely finish.
Serve & Enjoy Checkerboard Cake
This cake shines on its own, but it can be even more delicious when served with a few simple touches. Consider pairing it with a fresh cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. You can slice the cake into squares to showcase its beautiful layers, allowing each piece to reveal the stunning checkerboard pattern. Garnishing with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the presentation and add a burst of freshness.
Expert Tips for Checkerboard Cake
- Texture Boost: If you want extra moisture, you can mix a bit of yogurt into the cheese mixture. This adds creaminess and a slight tang.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding a dash of cocoa powder to half of the batter for a chocolatey twist. This way, your checkerboard will have a delicious chocolate and vanilla mix.
- Storage: To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so you can prepare it ahead of time for special occasions!
Checkerboard Cake FAQs
Q: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of a gluten-free alternative?
A: Yes, all-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe. If you need a gluten-free option, make sure to use a reliable gluten-free flour blend.
Q: How can I simplify the piping process?
A: If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a plastic zip-top bag with a small corner snipped off. This method works just as well for creating your checkerboard pattern.
Q: Is there a way to make it less sweet?
A: Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of sweetener or sugar according to your taste preferences. This cake is quite adaptable!
This Checkerboard Cake recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a joy to eat. With its unique pattern and delightful flavors, it’s a dessert that will surely impress your friends and family. So roll up your sleeves and give this tasty creation a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Checkerboard Cake
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, crack the eggs and add a pinch of salt along with the sweetener. Whisk everything together until it becomes frothy.
- Gradually incorporate the oil and milk into the mixture.
- Sift in the flour, baking powder, and vanilla sugar. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.
- Line a 22x22 centimeter (about 9x9 inch) square mold with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared mold and level it out evenly.
- In another bowl, combine the light cheese, one egg, sweetener, cornstarch, and vanilla sugar. Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, then transfer it into a piping bag.
- Use the piping bag to carefully pipe the cheese mixture onto the batter in a checkerboard pattern.
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the mold in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes.
- Once it’s done, remove the cake from the mold and let it cool.
- Once the cake is cool, dust it with icing sugar for a lovely finish.