Cake

Cheese and Exotic Fruit Cake - A Fluffy Indulgence at Home

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Have you ever thought that you can turn the ingredients you have on hand into a delicious and fluffy dessert? This cheese and exotic fruit cake recipe is the perfect solution to surprise your family or friends with a quick, simple, and flavorful dessert.

A Sweet History

The cake is a classic dessert that has evolved over the years, appearing in various forms and combinations across many cultures. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but its popularity has grown due to its versatility. It is a dessert that can be adapted based on available ingredients, making it ideal for any occasion.

Necessary Ingredients and Their Details

To achieve a fluffy cake, here’s what you need:

- 13 tablespoons of oil (approximately 195 ml) – choose a neutral oil, such as sunflower oil, so as not to alter the flavors.
- 13 tablespoons of sugar (approximately 130 g) – you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your sweetness preferences.
- 18-20 tablespoons of flour (approximately 225-250 g) – it’s preferable to use white wheat flour for a light texture.
- 18 tablespoons of milk (approximately 270 ml) – whole milk will provide moisture and a richer taste.
- 1 egg – make sure it is at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (approximately 10 g) – will help the batter rise, giving it an airy texture.
- 1-2 packets of vanilla sugar – for a sweet and inviting aroma.
- 2 cans of exotic fruit compote or 500 g of cottage cheese – the exotic fruits add freshness, while the cottage cheese adds creaminess.
- 30 g of raisins (optional) – for a sweet note and an interesting texture.

Step-by-step Preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients – Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a uniform and fluffy batter.

2. Beat the egg – In a large bowl, beat the egg with a whisk or fork until it becomes frothy. This will help aerate the batter.

3. Add the oil and sugar – While continuing to beat, gradually add the oil and sugar. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.

4. Incorporate the vanilla and milk – Add the vanilla sugar and milk, continuing to mix. The mixture should become homogeneous and slightly creamier.

5. Mix the dry ingredients – In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the batter.

6. Incorporate the flour – Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet composition. Use a spatula or whisk to mix, avoiding overmixing. The batter should have a medium consistency, neither too soft nor too hard.

7. Add the cheese or fruits – Now is the time to add the cottage cheese or fruit cans. If using cheese, make sure it is well-drained. In the case of fruits, you can also add some pieces of fresh fruit for an even more intense flavor.

8. Prepare the baking pan – Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it with oil and sprinkle flour to prevent sticking.

9. Pour the batter into the pan – Carefully pour the batter into the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

10. Baking – Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cake for 45-50 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the dessert is ready.

11. Cool and serve – Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can serve it plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a more elegant appearance.

Tips and Variations

- Alternative ingredients: You can experiment with different types of cheese (e.g., ricotta) or replace exotic fruits with berries for a tarter version.
- Flavoring: Add grated lemon or orange zest for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving: This cake is delicious both warm and cold. It can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream for a decadent experience.

Nutritional Benefits

This cheese and exotic fruit cake is not only tasty but also nutritious. Cottage cheese provides protein and calcium, while exotic fruits bring antioxidants and vitamins. Moreover, it is a healthier option compared to other desserts that contain higher saturated fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but be aware that the texture may vary.

2. Can the cake be frozen?
Absolutely! The cake keeps well in the freezer. Make sure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

3. Can it be made without eggs?
You can use an egg substitute (e.g., a mashed banana or a mixture of flaxseeds with water) for a vegan version.

4. What drinks pair well with this cake?
A cup of green tea or a cappuccino are excellent combinations, but a fruit smoothie would also provide a pleasant contrast.

In conclusion, this cheese and exotic fruit cake is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe that will fill your home with inviting aromas and make every meal a celebration. So, don’t wait any longer! Gather the ingredients and let your creativity run wild in the kitchen. Enjoy!