Flaò Cake: A Delightful Italian Dessert
If you’re looking for a dessert that blends the creaminess of cheese with the refreshing zest of citrus, look no further than the traditional Flaò cake. This rich and fragrant dessert is a beautiful Italian creation, perfect for any special occasion or an indulgent treat after dinner. The cake is made with a delicate base that complements the velvety filling made of creamy cheeses, yogurt, and a touch of menta for freshness. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a personal indulgence, this cake is sure to impress with its harmonious flavors.
Ingredients (For 8 Servings)
The recipe requires a mix of simple ingredients, but together, they form an unforgettable dessert. Here’s what you need to make this irresistible cake:
For the Base:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 50g |
| All-purpose flour (00 type) | 230g |
| Baking powder | 5g |
| Egg | 1 |
| Anise liquor | 20g |
| Orange juice | 40g |
| Lemon zest | ½ |
| Sugar | 30g |
For the Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh spreadable cheese | 100g |
| Greek yogurt | 180g |
| Goat cheese (Caprino) | 100g |
| Fresh liquid cream | 30g |
| Sugar | 50g |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Fresh mint | 5g |
| Lemon zest | ½ |
Directions: How to Make Flaò Cake
Follow these easy-to-follow steps to create your own Flaò cake. The process is simple, yet it yields an elegant and delicious dessert.
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by juicing the orange; you’ll need 40g of fresh juice, so set it aside. In a large bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. After mixing them well, add the anise liquor, orange juice, sugar, and lemon zest. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon, then knead the mixture into a dough. Once combined, shape it into a ball and cover it with plastic wrap. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the goat cheese (Caprino), fresh spreadable cheese, and Greek yogurt. Add the sugar and the zest of half a lemon. Mix everything together gently with a hand whisk until smooth. Once the mixture is creamy and well-combined, add the eggs (lightly beaten), the liquid cream, and finely chopped fresh mint. It’s important to chop the mint finely and add it immediately after cutting, as this preserves its full aroma and flavor. Gently fold the ingredients together.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Take the dough you prepared earlier and remove the plastic wrap. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface using a rolling pin. Aim for a sheet of dough large enough to line a 23 cm (9-inch) tart pan with a removable bottom. Once you’ve rolled out the dough, transfer it to the pan, pressing it gently into the edges and trimming any excess.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Pour the prepared filling over the base in the tart pan. Smooth the top gently with a spatula, ensuring an even distribution. Place the pan in the oven and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
Once baked, let the Flaò cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before removing the sides. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor Twist: While mint and lemon pair beautifully in this cake, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
- Fruit Garnish: Consider topping the cake with some fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for an added burst of sweetness and color.
- Storage: Store the Flaò cake in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 2 days, making it ideal for making ahead.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~290 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 20g |
Why You’ll Love Flaò Cake
This delicious dessert offers the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, with a rich texture and an aromatic citrus finish. The subtle anise flavor, paired with the tang of the yogurt and the freshness of mint, makes this cake a delightful experience for your palate. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique dessert to impress your guests, the Flaò cake is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Try it for your next dinner party, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family – they’ll be thanking you for it!
