Cake with whipped cream and fruits

Fruit and Cream Cake – A Refreshing and Aromatic Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 45 minutes (including cooling)
Number of servings: 12-14

Introduction

Welcome to the sweet world of desserts! Today we will embark on a recipe for fruit and cream cake, a true treat for the taste buds. This cake is not only easy to prepare but also brings an explosion of colors and flavors, perfect for any occasion. From birthdays to picnics, this delicacy can become the star of your table.

To better understand the charm of this cake, we must remember the tradition of desserts with cream and fruits, which has evolved over time. These delicious combinations have been appreciated for their freshness and light texture, making them the ideal choice for hot summer days. Whether you choose berries or other types of fruit, our cake will always bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 1 vanilla essence or grated lemon/orange peel (for an extra flavor)

For the cream:
- 500 ml liquid cream
- 300 ml full-fat yogurt
- 100 g vanilla powdered sugar
- 1 packet of gelatin
- 300 g berries or any other fruit of your choice (strawberries, peaches, kiwi)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the base
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. This is essential for achieving a fluffy and light base. In a bowl, add the yolks and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix well until the composition becomes whitish and fluffy. Add the 4 tablespoons of flour and mix vigorously to avoid lumps.

2. Beating the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar until you obtain a firm foam. This step is crucial for aerating the base. Make sure the bowl is clean and free of impurities, as fat or water can prevent the egg whites from whipping correctly.

3. Combining the ingredients
With a spatula, gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture, being careful not to destroy the volume. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour in the mixture. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray inside for 10-15 minutes. Check with a toothpick if it is done – it should come out clean.

4. Cooling the base
Once the base is baked, remove it from the tray and let it cool. You can cover it with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out. A light weight can be used to keep it flat, ensuring an even base for the cream.

5. Preparing the cream
In a small pot, add the gelatin and cover it with water. Let it swell for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, whip the cream until it becomes firm. Add the yogurt and powdered sugar, continuing to mix.

6. Incorporating the gelatin
Dissolve the gelatin in a bain-marie with a spoonful of milk or water. Once dissolved, add the gelatin to the whipped cream and yogurt mixture, stirring well to obtain a homogeneous composition.

7. Adding the fruits
Place a few tablespoons of cream over the fruits and gently mix to coat them, being careful not to crush them. This will add a fresh note and a pleasant texture to the cake.

8. Assembling the cake
If you baked a single base, cut it in half. Place the first half on a serving platter and spread half of the whipped cream on top. Add a layer of cream with fruits, followed by the remaining cream. Place the other half of the base on top.

9. Final cooling
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This cooling time will allow the flavors to blend and make the cake easier to cut.

10. Decorating the cake
Finally, decorate the cake with extra whipped cream, fresh fruit, or fruit juice jelly. You can also add grated chocolate for a more decadent look.

Practical Tips

- Choose seasonal fruits: Berries are ideal due to their intense flavors, but feel free to experiment with peaches, mangoes, or kiwi.
- Gelatin: Make sure the gelatin is well dissolved to avoid lumps in the cream.
- Check the oven: Every oven bakes differently, so it’s good to monitor the base in the last few minutes.
- Variations: You can add nuts or coconut flakes to the cream for a crunchy taste. You can also replace the yogurt with mascarpone for a richer cream.

Delicious Combinations

This fruit and cream cake pairs perfectly with a cold fruit tea or a sweet wine. You can also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a wonderful temperature contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is a healthier choice due to the yogurt and fresh fruits, which provide vitamins and antioxidants. Using cream also gives you a calcium boost, essential for bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can try whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture may be different.

2. What is the best way to store the cake?
Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator and consume it within 3 days to enjoy the freshness of the fruits.

3. Can I replace the sugar?
You can use natural sweeteners, but the taste and final texture may change.

Now you are ready to start cooking! This fruit and cream cake will surely become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and enjoy every step of this delicious process!