Cake with nectar and apricots

Nectar and Apricot Cake: The Perfect Delight for a Summer Day

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 10 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 12

Overview

Who doesn't love a light and fresh cake, full of delicious flavors? The Nectar and Apricot Cake is a dessert that combines the fluffy texture of the layers and the creaminess of the cheese with the natural sweetness of apricots. This simple and quick recipe is perfect to enjoy alongside a cup of tea or coffee, bringing a touch of sunshine to any moment of the day.

History of the Nectar and Apricot Cake

Over time, desserts that include fruits have always been in high demand. Apricot, a fruit with a distinctive flavor and vibrant color, is used in numerous desserts around the world. This cake draws inspiration from the tradition of using seasonal fruits to create sweet treats that delight the taste buds. Apricot nectar adds an extra note of flavor and moisture, making this dessert truly special.

Ingredients

For the two layers:

- 4 eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- a pinch of salt
- vanilla essence

For the cream:

- 350 g of fresh cottage cheese
- 150 g of powdered sugar with vanilla flavor
- 200 ml of cream
- 250 ml of apricot nectar
- 2 packets of gelatin

For decoration:

- syrup from an apricot compote (800 ml jar)
- remaining apricots from the compote, drained
- 2 packets of Gelle-Tort

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the layers
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential to allow your cake to rise evenly. In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you obtain a stiff and shiny foam. This is the key to fluffy and airy layers.

2. Incorporate the ingredients
In another bowl, mix the yolks with the oil and vanilla essence. Once you have a homogeneous mixture, gradually add the sifted flour. Make sure to mix gently to avoid deflating the egg whites. Once the mixture is homogeneous, combine it with the beaten egg whites, taking care to use a spatula to maintain the air in the mixture.

3. Bake the layers
Line two trays with baking paper and evenly divide the mixture between the two trays. Bake the layers for about 20 minutes or until they turn golden and pass the toothpick test. Once baked, let them cool in the trays for a few minutes, then carefully detach them from the paper.

4. Prepare the cream
In a bowl, mix the fresh cottage cheese with the powdered sugar and cream until you obtain a fine and creamy mixture. Meanwhile, hydrate the gelatin in 100 ml of cold water, then melt it in a bain-marie or in the microwave. Add the melted gelatin to the cheese mixture and mix well. Finally, incorporate apricot nectar to add a sweet and aromatic flavor.

5. Assembling the cake
Place the first layer in the tray where you baked it. Pour the cheese cream evenly over it. Use a spatula to distribute it well, then add the drained apricot slices from the compote. Carefully place the second layer on top, pressing gently to smooth the surface.

6. Preparing the gelatin for decoration
In another container, mix the remaining compote juice with the two packets of Tort-Gelle. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. If you want a more intense apricot flavor, you can add a shot of apricot nectar to this mixture.

7. Finalizing the cake
Pour the hot mixture over the cake. This will create a shiny glaze that will hold all the ingredients together. Let the cake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Buy quality ingredients: Use fresh cottage cheese and natural apricot nectar, without additives. The taste will be that much better.
- Check the freshness of the eggs: Fresh eggs whip better and contribute to a more airy texture of the layers.
- Pay attention to the temperature of the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Gluten-free option: You can replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend if you want a version for those with gluten intolerance.
- Serving: The cake can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top, for a pleasant contrast of textures.

Nutritional benefits

This Nectar and Apricot Cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Apricot is an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for skin and eye health. Fresh cottage cheese provides quality protein, while cream adds a boost of calcium and healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions

- Can it be kept in the freezer? Yes, you can freeze the cake, but it is recommended to slice it beforehand and wrap it well to prevent drying out.
- What other fruits can be used? You can experiment with peaches, plums, or even berries, depending on preferences and availability.
- Is it a vegan recipe? This is not a vegan recipe, but you can substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacer and the cheese with a plant-based alternative.

Combination recipe

The Nectar and Apricot Cake pairs perfectly with a refreshing lemonade or green tea with mint. These drinks help balance the sweetness of the dessert and provide a pleasant culinary experience.

Enjoy every moment of cooking and savor the delight of this Nectar and Apricot Cake! Bon appétit!