Make a Treat for Your Sweetheart

As Valentine’s Day approaches, you may be wondering how to impress your sweetheart with your undying devotion. Why not make a heart-shaped brownie cake with all the trimmings? It is not as difficult as it sounds—our pastry chef Nedka and her team show you how. Begin by preparing a sheet of brownies with a mix or common recipe. Once it has cooled, cut the brownie sheet into a heart shape with a knife and then firm it with your hands. Sweeten the cake by coating it with a layer of jam (choose a flavour your loved one enjoys—perhaps strawberry or raspberry?). Next, sprinkle your counter with flour and roll out fondant into a half-inch thickness (fondant can be bought in a package at your local market). Next, cover the brownie with fondant and smooth it into place; trim off the excess fondant around the edges with a knife and set it aside. Place the cake on a serving platter—it’s time to decorate it! Start by drizzling liquid white chocolate on the surface to create a lacy pattern. Excess fondant can be used to make decorative flowers; a small oval can be rolled into a tube and then wrapped in another layer, forming a rosebud. Affix several of these to the cake. A mixture of fresh raspberries and raspberry sauce adds colour and flavour to the cake’s topping. Other decorations might include sliced strawberries, gold leaf, or a chocolate straw. Though Anassa is closed until 2 April, Nedka and her team couldn’t help sharing their tips. Have a happy Valentine’s Day!