Cake with ladyfingers, yogurt, and fruits

Sponge Cake with Yogurt and Fruits - A Refreshing Delight for Sunny Days

When it comes to quick and easy desserts, sponge cake with yogurt and fruits is definitely a top choice. This cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an excellent way to bring a touch of freshness to warm days. Perfect for a Sunday snack or to celebrate a special occasion, such as St. Constantine and Helen, this cake is ideal for enjoying with loved ones.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 3-3.5 hours
Servings: 8-10

Essential Ingredients:
- 300 g sponge biscuits
- 400 g creamy yogurt (choose a yogurt with a high-fat content for a richer texture)
- 300 g whipped cream
- 2 packets of granular gelatin (about 20 g)
- 100 g powdered sugar with vanilla flavor (or you can add regular sugar and vanilla essence)
- Kiwi (1-2 fruits, depending on preference)
- Orange (1-2 fruits, for a citrus note)
- Canned pineapple (1 can, for added sweetness)

Preparing the Gelatin:
1. Start by hydrating the gelatin. Put the gelatin in a bowl and add warm water, enough to cover it. Let it swell for 20-25 minutes. Make sure the water is not too hot, otherwise the gelatin will lose its properties.

Making the Yogurt Cream:
2. Once the gelatin has swollen, melt it in a double boiler or microwave, being careful not to boil it. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. In a large bowl, add the creamy yogurt and powdered sugar with vanilla flavor. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
4. Add the melted gelatin to the yogurt mixture and mix vigorously to ensure it is well incorporated.
5. In another bowl, whip the cream until it becomes firm. Then, gradually add the whipped cream to the yogurt mixture, mixing gently from top to bottom to avoid losing air from the cream.

Preparing the Fruits:
6. Drain the canned pineapple and cut it into small cubes. Then, peel the kiwi and oranges, slicing them thinly. If you prefer, you can choose other seasonal fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, which will add a touch of freshness and color to the cake.

Assembling the Cake:
7. Line the inside of a detachable cake pan with aluminum foil. This step is essential as it will prevent the cake from sticking to the edges.
8. Cover the bottom of the pan with a layer of sponge biscuits, making sure they are well arranged.
9. Pour half of the yogurt and cream mixture, leveling the surface with a spatula. Then, add the pineapple cubes and half of the kiwi and orange slices, gently mixing to incorporate them into the cream.
10. Pour the remaining cream on top and level it again. Garnish with the remaining fruit slices, arranging them nicely on the surface of the cake.

Cooling:
11. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, or until it sets.

Serving:
12. When serving, remove the sponge cake with yogurt and fruits from the pan, carefully remove the aluminum foil, and cut it into slices. Serve it plain or with a berry sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Useful Tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can replace the yogurt with Greek yogurt or a fruit-flavored yogurt.
- The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.
- For a vegan option, you can use plant-based yogurt and vegan whipped cream.

Nutritional Benefits:
This yogurt and fruit cake is a healthy option, being high in protein due to the yogurt and enriched with vitamins and antioxidants from the fruits. It is a lighter choice than many other desserts, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging in calories.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use vegetable gelatin?
Yes, you can replace animal gelatin with agar-agar or other plant-based alternatives, following the instructions on the packaging for hydration and use.
2. What other fruits can I use?
You can experiment with any seasonal fruits, such as raspberries, blackberries, or peaches, which pair excellently with yogurt.
3. How can I make the cake sweeter?
Add more powdered sugar or use a yogurt with a higher sugar content.

This sponge cake with yogurt and fruits is a dessert that brings joy and freshness to any occasion. Whether you prepare it for a gathering with friends or for a special celebration, it is sure to be a guaranteed success! Enjoy!