Cherry and apple cake

Cherry and Apple Cake: A Quick and Delicious Sweet Treat

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-55 minutes
Servings: 8

The cherry and apple cake is a simple delight with a flavor that will warm your soul. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also perfect for the whole family to enjoy, including the little ones. By combining the sweetness of apples with the tartness of cherries, the result is a cake with a fluffy texture and unforgettable taste.

Moreover, it can be adapted according to the season by using different fruits, making it a versatile choice throughout the year. Let’s take a step-by-step look at how to make this delicious cake!

Ingredients

- 5 apples
- 1 cup of cherries, preferably fresh or, if unavailable, from a jar (be sure to drain them well)
- 3 egg whites
- 10 tablespoons of oil (you can use sunflower or canola oil)
- 150 g sugar
- 150 g flour
- 1 packet of baking powder (about 10 g)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Useful Tools

- A rectangular baking dish (approximately 30x20 cm)
- A wooden spoon or a silicone spatula
- A mixer or a whisk

A Brief Story

The cherry and apple cake has its roots in cooking traditions around the world, where seasonal fruits are used to create delicious desserts. This cake is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can lead to amazing combinations. It is said that fruit desserts are among the most beloved, not only for their taste but also for the freshness and color they bring to the dessert table.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the apples are ripe but not overly soft to provide a pleasant texture to the cake. The cherries, whether fresh or from a jar, add a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the apples.

2. Beat the egg whites
In a large bowl, add the 3 egg whites and beat them with a mixer on medium speed until frothy. Gradually add 150 g of sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm, glossy meringue. This step is crucial as it will give the cake an airy texture.

3. Cream the egg yolks
In another bowl, cream the egg yolks with 4 tablespoons of oil until smooth. Then, add this mixture to the meringue, gently folding with a spatula to maintain the airiness of the egg whites.

4. Add the dry ingredients
Sift the flour together with the baking powder and cinnamon. Add the flour mixture to the bowl with the egg mixture, gently folding from the bottom up using a wooden spoon. This technique helps retain the air in the egg whites.

5. Prepare the baking dish
Grease the rectangular baking dish with a little oil and dust it with flour. This step is important to prevent the cake from sticking to the dish and to allow for easy removal after baking.

6. Pour the mixture into the dish
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and level the surface with a spatula.

7. Prepare the fruits
Peel the apples and cut them into small cubes. Once you’ve chopped the apples, distribute them evenly over the batter in the dish. Add the cherries on top, ensuring they are well spread out.

8. Bake the cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cake for 30-40 minutes. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is baked.

9. Cool and serve
Once the cake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the dish for 10-15 minutes. After it has cooled slightly, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an attractive finish.

Serving Suggestions

This cherry and apple cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It also pairs wonderfully with a fruit tea or a fragrant coffee.

Possible Variations

To add a touch of originality, you can try the following variations:

- Add nuts: Incorporate 50 g of chopped nuts into the batter for an extra crunch.
- Different fruits: Substitute cherries with cherries or peaches to experiment with other flavors.
- Spices: You can add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to diversify the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake provides a good source of vitamins from the fruits, and cinnamon adds not only flavor but also antioxidant benefits. While the flour is a source of carbohydrates, it provides energy, and the oil contributes healthy fats, supporting a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier option, but you may need to adjust the liquid amounts.

- How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in airtight containers in the refrigerator for a few days. You can also freeze it to enjoy later.

- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using egg substitutes, such as banana puree or plant-based yogurt, but the texture and taste may vary.

The cherry and apple cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a way to bring the family together and create pleasant memories around the table. So gather your ingredients and enjoy this treat that is sure to become a favorite in your home!