Chajá facts for kids
Confectionery showing chajás on the bottom and masinis (another Uruguayan dessert) on the middle.
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| Place of origin |  Uruguay |
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| Region or state | Paysandú |
| Serving temperature | cold |
| Main ingredients | meringue, sponge cake (bizcochuelo), crema doble, peaches or strawberries |
The chajá cake is a super yummy dessert from Uruguayan cuisine. It's known for being light and fluffy. This special cake was first made on April 27, 1927. It was created by Orlando Castellano, who owned a sweet shop called Confitería Las Familias in the city of Paysandú. Chajá cake became so popular that it's now sent to other countries like Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and the United States.
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What Makes Chajá Cake Special?
Chajá cake is a delicious treat that's loved in Uruguay. It's famous for its soft layers and sweet taste. People often enjoy it cold, making it a perfect dessert for any time of year.
Where Did Chajá Cake Come From?
The story of Chajá cake began in 1927. Orlando Castellano, a clever baker, invented this dessert in his shop in Paysandú. He wanted to create something unique and tasty. His creation quickly became a hit! From a small shop, the cake grew in fame. Now, it's a well-known Uruguayan dessert enjoyed by many.
Why is it Called Chajá?
The name "Chajá" comes from a bird! The dessert is named after the Southern screamer. This bird is also called a chajá in Uruguay. It's a large bird that lives in central and southern South America. The cake's light and airy texture might remind people of the bird's feathers or its ability to fly.
What's Inside a Chajá Cake?
Chajá cake is made from a few key ingredients that give it its special taste and texture.
- Meringue: This is a light and crispy topping made from whipped egg whites and sugar.
- Sponge cake: Also known as bizcochuelo, this is a soft and airy cake base.
- Cream: A rich and smooth cream, often called crema de leche or crema doble, adds to the cake's creamy texture.
- Fruits: Fresh fruits are usually added. The most common ones are peaches and strawberries.
Sometimes, bakers add other yummy things to Chajá cake. You might find versions with dulce de leche, a sweet caramel-like spread. Some cakes also include chocolate for a different flavor.
