Cake with Ladyfingers, Yogurt, and Strawberries

Ladyfinger, Yogurt, and Strawberry Cake - A Perfection of Taste and Moments Spent Together

When it comes to celebrations, there’s nothing more delightful than a dessert that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones. This Ladyfinger, Yogurt, and Strawberry Cake is exactly the recipe you need to turn an ordinary day into a true celebration. Easy to prepare, with accessible ingredients and incredibly delicious, this cake is sure to become a star on your dessert table.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 0 minutes (just chilling time in the fridge)
Total time: 1 hour (plus 8 hours of refrigeration)
Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary Ingredients

- 200g ladyfingers (one package)
- 600g yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamier texture)
- 200ml cooking cream
- 200ml whipped cream (ideally well chilled before whipping)
- 200g white chocolate
- 500g strawberries (or raspberries, according to preference)
- 20g gelatin (about one packet)
- 250ml water (for syrup)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (for syrup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence (for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cognac (optional, but adds a refined taste)

A Brief History of the Recipe

The origins of ladyfinger and cream cakes date back many generations, appearing in various forms around the world. These desserts are appreciated not only for their delicious taste but also for their light and airy texture, making each slice a true pleasure. The combination of creamy yogurt and fragrant strawberries brings a perfect balance between sweet and tangy, transforming every bite into an explosion of flavors.

Step by Step - Preparation Guide

1. Melting the Chocolate and Hydrating the Gelatin
Start by melting the white chocolate together with the cooking cream. Use a double boiler to avoid burning the chocolate. Make sure the water in the pot doesn’t boil, or the chocolate will spoil. Once melted, let it cool slightly. Meanwhile, hydrate the gelatin according to the instructions on the package, usually in cold water for a few minutes.

2. Mixing the Ingredients
After the gelatin is hydrated, add it to the melted chocolate and mix well until fully incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour. This step is essential to ensure a uniform texture of the cream.

3. Creating the Yogurt Cream
Remove the cream from the fridge, remove the wrap, and mix on low speed for one minute. Then, add the yogurt and continue mixing for another minute or until the cream becomes smooth. Cut the strawberries into small pieces (save about 100g for decoration) and incorporate them into the mixture. If you prefer raspberries, they will provide a lighter texture and easier cutting of the cake.

4. Preparing the Syrup
In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, vanilla essence, and cognac. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Let it cool slightly.

5. Assembling the Cake
Line a round baking dish with plastic wrap to facilitate the removal of the cake. Dip the ladyfingers in the syrup, one by one, and place them around the edge of the dish. Continue adding ladyfingers until you complete the circle. Pour the cream into the center, filling the dish up to ¾ of the height of the ladyfingers. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to set.

6. Finalizing and Decorating
The next day, remove the cake from the fridge and lift it out of the dish using the wrap. Place it on a serving platter and carefully remove the wrap. Whip the cream and pour it evenly over the cake. Decorate with the remaining strawberries on top, giving it a fresh and appealing touch.

Practical Tips

- Choose Yogurt Carefully: A Greek yogurt will add a denser and creamier consistency, perfect for this cake. If using regular yogurt, make sure it is well drained of whey.
- Syrup: You can experiment with different flavors in the syrup. For example, add a few mint leaves or a bit of lemon juice for a fresher taste.
- Texture: If you want the cake to be easier to cut, chop the strawberries into small pieces. Large strawberries can make the cake harder to portion.
- Variations: Instead of strawberries or raspberries, you can also try other berries, such as blackberries or blueberries, for a different taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate for a more intense flavor, but make sure to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe, as dark chocolate is less sweet.

2. How long can the cake be stored?
The cake can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

3. What drinks pair well with this cake?
A cold lemonade or a fruit tea infusion will perfectly complement the dessert. Additionally, a glass of sweet white wine can add a touch of elegance.

4. Is it possible to make this cake healthier?
You can replace the cream with a light version or with Greek yogurt, and the sugar in the syrup can be substituted with a natural sweetener.

Personal Note

This recipe is one of my favorites, not only for its delicious taste but also for the memories it creates. Each slice served brings family and friends together, opening up conversations and laughter. Preparing this cake becomes a true experience, and each step is an opportunity to connect with loved ones. So, this weekend, gather your family around the table and enjoy every bite!

Bon appétit!