Cake with ladyfingers, sour cherries, and whipped cream

Sponge cake with cherries and whipped cream - a perfect delight for any occasion

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 12 hours
Total time: 12 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't love a creamy cake with a combination of sweet and sour flavors? Today's recipe is a sponge cake with cherries and whipped cream, which promises to be the star of any festive meal. This refined yet easy-to-make dessert combines the soft texture of the cream with the coolness of the cherries and the crunchiness of the sponge fingers, creating an unforgettable tasting experience. Let's get to work!

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 large pack of sponge fingers (about 400 g)
- 500 ml milk
- 5 egg yolks
- 300 g sugar
- 20 g gelatin (about 1 sachet)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 can of pineapple compote (about 400 g)
- 500 g liquid whipped cream
- 350 g ripe cherries (fresh or from compote)
- For decoration: mint leaves, decorative candies, whipped cream

A brief story about the recipe

The sponge cake with cherries and whipped cream has its origins in the pastry traditions of many cultures, being a popular dessert due to its simplicity and refined taste. Sponge fingers are a versatile ingredient often used in desserts, and the combination with cherries, seasonal fruits, adds a note of freshness. It is a cake that not only delights the taste buds but also the eyes, due to its vibrant colors.

Step by step: Preparing the cake

Step 1: Preparing the gelatin

Start by soaking the gelatin. Place 20 g of gelatin in a bowl with cold water and let it hydrate for 15-20 minutes, according to the instructions on the package. It is essential to follow this step carefully, as the gelatin will provide stability to the cream.

Step 2: Preparing the cream

Separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a saucepan, mix the 5 egg yolks with 300 g of sugar, vanilla essence, the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 500 ml of milk. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir constantly with a whisk to prevent sticking or burning. It is important to be patient and not raise the temperature too quickly, as the cream will thicken gradually.

When the cream starts to thicken, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. After it has cooled, add the soaked gelatin and mix well until completely dissolved. This step is essential, as the gelatin will help the cream achieve a perfect consistency.

Step 3: Adding the whipped cream

After the cream has completely cooled, place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Then, whip 500 g of liquid cream until stiff peaks form and gradually add it to the cooled cream. At this point, you can add diced pineapple from the compote for an extra flavor and texture. Gently mix to maintain the airiness of the whipped cream.

Step 4: Assembling the cake

Choose a springform pan to assemble the cake. Arrange the sponge fingers on the bottom and sides of the pan, quickly dipping them in the pineapple compote to soak them and give them a delicious flavor.

Once you have arranged the sponge fingers, pour the cream over them and level it with a spatula. Then, add the washed and well-drained cherries, placing them evenly over the entire surface of the cake. These will add a note of acidity that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cream.

Step 5: Cooling the cake

Leave the cake in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours. This is when the flavors will combine, and the cake will gain stability.

Step 6: Decorating the cake

After it has chilled, remove the cake from the pan and place it on a serving platter. Decorate it with whipped cream, mint leaves for a fresh look, and decorative candies for an extra touch of color and charm.

Practical tips for a perfect cake

- Gelatin: Make sure the gelatin is well-soaked and dissolved in the cream to avoid lumps.
- Whipped cream: Use cream with a high-fat content for a richer and more stable texture.
- Cherries: If using cherries from a compote, drain them well to avoid adding excess moisture to the cake.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can replace the cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, which pair perfectly with the vanilla cream.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

3. Is it possible to make it dairy-free?
Yes, you can use plant-based alternatives for milk and cream, such as almond milk or coconut cream.

Nutritional benefits

This cake is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, contributing to heart health and reducing inflammation. Additionally, the cream with eggs provides protein and essential nutrients.

Pair with...

For a complete culinary experience, serve the cake with a refreshing drink, such as mint lemonade or fruit tea. These will perfectly complement the sweetness and add a note of freshness.

Personal note

I fondly remember the moments when I prepared this cake with my family. It was a ritual to gather around the table and enjoy each slice, laughing and sharing stories. Bring a little of this atmosphere into your kitchen!

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to get cooking. This sponge cake with cherries and whipped cream will surely become a favorite in your list of quick and delicious desserts!