Cherry and cocoa tart

Cherry and Cocoa Tart

Do you enjoy discovering delicious flavor combinations? Then, the cherry and cocoa tart is a perfect choice for you! This recipe not only uses fresh cherries but also adds a touch of cocoa, transforming a simple ingredient into an elegant and savory dessert. Whether you're preparing for an anniversary or simply want to treat your family to a homemade sweet, this tart will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 350-400 g sweet, fresh cherries
- 100 g sugar
- 50 g flour
- 5 tablespoons cocoa (I recommend using high-quality cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 5 egg whites (about 150 g)
- One tablespoon powdered sugar (for decoration)
- Vanilla essence (a few drops)

Brief history:

Cherry desserts have been loved for centuries, and the combination of cherries with chocolate or cocoa has been reinterpreted over time. This tart is a modern variant that combines the fluffy texture of the dough with the sweet-tart flavor of the cherries, bringing a touch of elegance and refinement to every slice.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the cherries:
- Start by washing the cherries under a stream of cold water. Then, let them drain well in a sieve and, afterwards, dry them with a paper towel.
- Use a cherry pitter or a small knife to remove the pits. This step is essential, as cherries with pits cannot be consumed!

2. Mixing the dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift the flour and cocoa. Add half of the sugar (50 g) and mix well. This step will help eliminate any lumps and homogenize the ingredients.

3. Preparing the egg white foam:
- In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until you obtain a firm foam. Gradually add the remaining sugar (50 g), continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Add the vanilla essence for extra flavor.

4. Incorporating the ingredients:
- Using a spatula, pour the flour and cocoa mixture over the egg white foam. Use a gentle folding motion, from the bottom up, to keep the batter airy. It is important not to mix too much, otherwise the tart will not have that fluffy texture!

5. Preparing the pan:
- Line a springform pan with parchment paper on the bottom and grease the edges with a little butter and flour. This will help the tart release easily after baking.

6. Pouring the batter:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level it evenly. Then, arrange the pitted cherries over the entire surface of the batter, pressing them gently to integrate.

7. Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You can check if it's done using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the tart is perfectly baked.

8. Cooling:
- Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes in the pan. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Serving:
- When the tart is completely cooled, you can place it on a platter and dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant effect. It is delicious served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Practical tips:

- Choosing cherries: Select sweet and ripe cherries. Check that they are shiny and have a uniform color. Smaller cherries may be sweeter, while larger ones may contain more water.
- Variations: If you want to add a note of acidity, you can combine cherries with some sour cherries. You can also experiment with adding chopped nuts to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Suitable drinks: The cherry and cocoa tart pairs perfectly with a light red wine, a fruit tea, or even a fresh citrus cocktail.

Nutritional information (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 220 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen cherries?
- Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid excess water in the batter.

2. How long does the tart last?
- The tart can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It is delicious even cold!

3. Can I replace the egg whites with another ingredient?
- If you want an egg-free version, you can try using a mixture of banana puree or yogurt, but the texture will differ.

I hope this cherry and cocoa tart recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!