Blueberry cake

Blueberry Cake - a quick and delicious dessert

When it comes to quick desserts that combine flavor with ease of preparation, blueberry cake is definitely a top choice. With a soft and moist texture, this cake adds a touch of sweetness and freshness to any meal, and its aroma will fill your home with joy. It is a perfect recipe for beginners, as well as for the more experienced, offering a wonderful opportunity to use seasonal fruits or delicious jams.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 whole egg
- 1 cup of sugar
- ¾ cup of oil (preferably sunflower or light olive oil)
- 1 cup of natural yogurt (Greek yogurt can also be used for a creamier texture)
- 3 tablespoons of blueberry jam (or any preferred jam)
- 2 tablespoons of baking soda
- 3 cups of flour (white or whole wheat, depending on preference)
- Chopped nuts, to taste (optional, for added crunch)

Preparing the blueberry cake:

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This step is essential to ensure even baking of the cake.

2. In a large bowl, add the 4 egg yolks and the whole egg. Begin whisking them with a whisk or an electric mixer, gradually adding the sugar. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy, and the sugar is completely dissolved.

3. Now, incorporate the oil and yogurt. These ingredients bring moisture and a pleasant taste to the cake. Make sure to mix them well to achieve a homogeneous mixture.

4. Add the 3 tablespoons of blueberry jam. This is when your cake will start to take on a beautiful hue. Mix well to evenly distribute the jam in the batter.

5. In another bowl, combine the 3 cups of flour with the 2 tablespoons of baking soda. This will become the dry base of your batter. It is important to incorporate the baking soda to achieve a fluffy cake.

6. Start adding the flour mixture to the wet mixture gradually, mixing constantly. It is preferable to add the flour in 2-3 stages to avoid lumps.

7. Prepare the baking pan: grease it with a little oil and place a sheet of parchment paper on the bottom to prevent the cake from sticking. If you prefer, you can sprinkle a bit of flour over the parchment paper.

8. Pour the mixture into the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Finally, sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added texture and flavor.

9. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. It is recommended to check the cake after 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

10. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help maintain its fluffy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This blueberry cake is not only tasty but also full of nutrients. Blueberries are known for their rich content of antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fiber. Yogurt adds protein and probiotics, contributing to digestive health. Additionally, it can be a healthier choice compared to other calorie-rich desserts, having approximately 200 calories per serving (depending on the exact ingredients used).

Possible variations:
- You can replace blueberry jam with raspberry, strawberry, or any other preferred jam.
- Add a few drops of vanilla essence or grated lemon zest to enhance the flavor.
- If you want a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a combination of rice flour and coconut flour.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace yogurt with milk?
Yes, but yogurt brings a richer texture and moisture to the cake.

2. What is the best way to store the cake?
It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container at room temperature, where it can last for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for later use.

3. What drinks pair well with blueberry cake?
A cup of fruit tea or a glass of fresh lemonade are excellent accompaniments for this cake.

I hope you enjoy this blueberry cake as much as I do. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. Enjoy!