Chocolate Cake. Mrs. Harry True. Recipe

Chocolate cake is one of the most beloved desserts worldwide. It's a rich and decadent treat that has been enjoyed for generations. The recipe for chocolate cake has a long and fascinating history, with various versions and adaptations found in different cultures.

The origins of chocolate cake can be traced back to ancient times when the Mayans and Aztecs began cultivating cocoa beans. However, the chocolate cake recipe we know today didn't emerge until the 18th century when Dutch chemist and chocolate maker Coenraad Johannes van Houten invented the cocoa press. This invention allowed cocoa powder to be produced on a larger scale, making it more accessible to the masses.

The recipe for Mrs. Harry True's chocolate cake is a classic one that has been passed down through generations. It requires only a few simple ingredients, but the result is a moist and heavenly chocolatey delight. Let's dive into the details and steps to create this delicious cake.

Ingredients:
- 1 scant cup butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup sweet milk
- 3 eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 small quarter cake of chocolate, grated and dissolved in 1/2 cup boiling water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two round cake pans.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder.

5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the sweet milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing well after each addition.

6. Stir in the vanilla extract.

7. In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate over low heat until smooth. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

8. Gradually pour the melted chocolate into the cake batter, stirring well to incorporate.

9. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

11. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the icing between the layers:
- Reserve the white of one egg.
- Beat the white until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the beaten white of egg between the layers of the cake.

Now that you have mastered the art of making Mrs. Harry True's chocolate cake, here are a few fun facts about chocolate and desserts:

1. Chocolate has been enjoyed for thousands of years. The Mayans and Aztecs believed that it had divine properties and used it in sacred rituals.

2. The world's first chocolate bar was created in 1847 by British chocolate company J.S. Fry & Sons.

3. Chocolate contains a chemical called phenylethylamine (PEA), which is believed to promote feelings of love and happiness.

4. The largest chocolate cake ever made weighed over 12,000 pounds and was created in 2018 in Kuwait.

Now, let's explore some similar recipes and dishes that you may enjoy:

1. Flourless Chocolate Cake: A dense and fudgy cake made without flour, perfect for gluten-free diets.

2. Chocolate Mousse: A light and airy dessert made with whipped cream, egg whites, and melted chocolate.

3. Chocolate Brownies: A classic favorite, these dense and chewy squares are perfect for chocoholics.

4. Chocolate Lava Cake: A show-stopping dessert with a gooey chocolate center that oozes out when you cut into it.

5. German Chocolate Cake: A rich and caramel-like cake with a coconut and pecan frosting, despite its name, it originates from the United States.

6. Chocolate Soufflé: A delicate and airy dessert that rises to impressive heights while baking.

Remember, there's always room for chocolate in our lives, and with this recipe, you can create your own decadent chocolate cake that will delight family and friends. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of this time-honored dessert!