Black Forest Cake

Cherry and Plum Cake: A Delight for Anniversaries

Today we celebrate not just an ordinary day, but a double anniversary filled with joy, love, and of course, a dessert to crown the moment. Therefore, I invite you to prepare with me a delicious cherry and plum cake, perfect for celebrating special moments with loved ones. This cake is not just a dessert, but an explosion of flavors and colors that will bring smiles to everyone's faces.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients:
- 5 eggs
- 1 cup of sugar (plus 2-3 tablespoons for whipped cream)
- 1 cup of flour
- A pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons of oil
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 350 ml of sweet liquid cream
- 350 ml of sour cream
- 1 jar of cherry compote (pitted)
- 1 jar of plum compote (pitted)
- Grated chocolate for decoration
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Base
We start by preparing the base, the key to a successful cake. In a large bowl, mix the eggs with the sugar and salt for about 10 minutes. This stage is crucial! The eggs must double in volume, and the mixture should become creamy and light in color. It is essential that the sugar dissolves completely to achieve a fluffy base.

Helpful tips:
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Use an electric mixer for the best results.

Step 2: Adding the Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour, cocoa, and baking powder into another bowl. These dry ingredients will be gradually added to the egg mixture, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. It is important to mix gently to avoid losing the air in the composition.

Step 3: Baking the Base
Grease a 22 cm round cake pan with oil and sprinkle with flour. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake at a medium-low temperature (about 180°C) for 30-35 minutes. Check if the base is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the base is ready! Let it cool completely before cutting it into three layers.

Variation: Instead of cocoa, you can use almond flour for a different taste and interesting texture.

Step 4: Preparing the Cream
While the base is cooling, prepare the cream. Whip the liquid cream with the sour cream, adding the 2-3 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla sugar. Continue mixing until you achieve a firm consistency. This cream will add a touch of delicacy to the cake.

Step 5: Assembling the Cake
Once the base has cooled, cut it into three horizontal parts. Place the first layer on a platter, lightly soaked with the juice from the cherry compote. Spread 1/3 of the whipped cream, followed by a layer of cherries from the compote. Repeat this process for the second layer, using the plums from the compote. Finally, place the last layer, which should also be lightly soaked. Cover the cake with the remaining whipped cream, making it look appetizing.

Step 6: Decorating the Cake
To add a touch of elegance, decorate the cake with grated chocolate and a few cherries on top. This detail will not only enhance the appearance but also add a wonderful flavor.

Final Tips:
- Let the cake chill in the fridge for a few hours before serving; this will help firm up the cream and make each slice perfect.
- You can experiment with other fruits from compote, such as peaches or pineapple, to diversify the flavors.

Nutritional Information:
This recipe offers approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the serving size and ingredients used. The cake contains protein from eggs and sour cream, as well as vitamins and minerals from the fruits. It is a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh fruit instead of compote?
Yes, but you need to prepare them beforehand to make them easier to use in the cake.

- How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the whipped cream and use more tart fruits.

- What other drinks go well with this cake?
A cup of green tea or a sweet wine would perfectly complement this dessert.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to gather the ingredients and start your culinary adventure! May this cherry and plum cake bring joy and happiness to your celebrations! Happy Anniversary!