Cake with cream and fruits

The cream and fruit cake is a dessert that combines the delicacy of a fluffy base with the freshness of fruits and the creaminess of a delicious cream. Ideal for serving at a party or simply when you want to indulge yourself, this recipe is sure to win you over! Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes Preparation time: 25 minutes Baking time: 25 minutes Number of servings: 12 Ingredients For the base: - 170 grams of sugar - 170 grams of soft margarine or butter (for a richer taste, I recommend butter) - 4 large eggs - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 170 grams of flour - 1 sachet of vanilla (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract) - Grated zest of one lemon For the cream: - 2 sachets of vanilla pudding (or a tart cream) - 1 kiwi - 1 banana - 1 can of pineapple (or 200 grams of fresh pineapple) - 2 mandarins - 1 orange - 2 sachets of gelatin for cakes (e.g., Dr. Oetker) Necessary utensils - Electric mixer - Baking tray (25x30 cm) - Mixing bowl - Silicone spatula - Cutting knife - Serving plate Step-by-step instructions 1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This is a crucial step, as a well-heated oven will ensure an even baking of the base. 2. Prepare the base: In a large bowl, add the soft margarine or butter along with the sugar. Use the mixer to blend them well until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This is the moment when the sugar will dissolve and contribute to aerating the mixture, making the base fluffier. 3. Adding the eggs: Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help create a fine texture. 4. Including the flavors: Add the vanilla and lemon zest, mixing gently to integrate them. The lemon aroma will add a touch of freshness, balancing the sweetness of the sugar. 5. Mixing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Sifting them together will help eliminate any lumps. Add the flour mixture to the wet composition, mixing with a spatula, using gentle movements to avoid losing air from the base. 6. Baking the base: Pour the mixture into the greased and floured tray. Ensure it is evenly distributed. Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the base turns golden and a stick inserted in the middle comes out clean. 7. Cooling the base: After baking, let the base cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent condensation, which can make the base wet. 8. Preparing the cream: While the base cools, prepare the two puddings according to the instructions on the package. You can use whole milk to achieve a richer cream. 9. Adding the fruits: Wash and peel the fruits. Cut the kiwi, banana, pineapple, mandarins, and orange into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. When the pudding is warm, spread it evenly over the cooled base and then arrange the fruits on top. 10. Preparing the gelatin: Follow the instructions on the gelatin package, mixing it with hot water until completely dissolved. Let it cool slightly, then pour the gelatin over the fruits with gentle movements, so as not to damage them. 11. Final cooling: Place the cake in the refrigerator for an hour, so the gelatin can set. This step is important for achieving a pleasant texture when serving. 12. Serving: Once cooled, cut the cake into cubes and serve it with a cup of tea or a cold lemonade. It is perfect for a gathering with friends or a weekend dessert. Variations and useful tips - Seasonal fruits: You can experiment with various fruits depending on the season. Raspberries, strawberries, or peaches add a touch of originality. - Gluten-free alternative: Use gluten-free flour to adapt the recipe to the needs of those with intolerances. - Cooking tricks: For a more intense flavor, you can add a little orange liqueur to the pudding cream. - Elegant serving: Decorate the cake with mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a more festive appearance. Calories and nutritional benefits This cream and fruit cake contains approximately 250 calories per serving, and the fruits add essential vitamins and antioxidants. The butter base provides healthy fats, and the eggs are a good source of protein. It is important to consume desserts in moderation, but this cake can be a healthier choice due to the content of fresh fruits. Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use other types of fruits? Absolutely! You can adapt the recipe according to your preferences or the available fruits. 2. How can I prevent the base from becoming too wet? Ensure that the base is completely cooled before adding the cream and fruits. Also, avoid putting very juicy fruits. 3. Can I prepare the cake in advance? Yes, the cake keeps well in the refrigerator and can be made a day before serving. The cream and fruit cake is undoubtedly a dessert that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every bite and savor the moment!