Apricot Cake

To prepare a delicious apricot cake, start by carefully separating the egg whites from the yolks. This step is essential, as well-beaten egg whites will provide a fluffy texture to the cake. In a generous bowl, mix the yolks together with 13 tablespoons of sugar and a packet of vanilla sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes a fluffy cream of a bright golden yellow. Once you achieve this consistency, gradually incorporate the milk and oil, mixing continuously to ensure perfect homogeneity.

The next step is to add the sifted flour along with the baking powder. Mix well, but do not overmix, as this could develop the gluten in the flour, which might lead to a denser cake. The mixture should be fluid, runny, but not too thin. Prepare a baking tray, grease it with oil, and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the tray, and then place the apricots, halved and pitted, with the hollow side facing up. This will allow the natural juice of the apricots to infuse into the cake during baking.

If the apricots are a bit tart, sprinkle a little sugar on top to balance the acidity. If you want an extra texture and flavor, you can add a walnut half into each apricot half. This detail will not only enrich the taste but will also add a pleasant contrast of textures. Now place the tray in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 25-30 minutes.

While the cake is in the oven, you can prepare the meringue. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt using a clean mixer until they become frothy and form soft peaks. Then, gradually add the 8 tablespoons of sugar and the packet of vanilla sugar, continuing to mix until the meringue becomes firm and glossy. It is important for the meringue to be well beaten to stay on the cake.

When the cake has been baked for 20 minutes, take it out of the oven and carefully pour the meringue on top. Spread it evenly and return it to the oven for another 10 minutes, until the meringue becomes slightly browned and crispy on the surface. Then, let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Enjoy this wonderful apricot cake, which will surely delight the taste buds of your loved ones!