Cherry and meringue cake

Cherry and Meringue Cake: A Summer Delicacy

Who doesn't love the perfect combination of sweet cherries and the fluffy texture of meringue? The cherry and meringue cake is a dessert that not only pleases the eye but also the palate, offering a mix of flavors and textures that will take you on an unforgettable culinary journey. This recipe is perfect for hot summer days when cherries are in full season, but it can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

The History of Cherry and Meringue Cake

Cherry cakes have a long-standing tradition in our cuisine, symbolizing the joy of summer and a bountiful harvest. Cherries, with their intense flavor and specific acidity, add a pleasant contrast to the sweet base and meringue, turning each slice into an explosion of taste. This cake is often associated with festive moments, being an ideal dessert for parties, anniversaries, or even family gatherings.

Necessary Ingredients

For the base:
- 4 eggs
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 cup of sugar (about 200g)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 vanilla essence (or grated peel of one lemon)
- 2 cups of flour (about 250g)
- 1 kg of cherries (pitted and well-drained)

For the meringue:
- 4 egg whites
- 8 tablespoons of sugar (about 200g)
- 2-3 drops of lemon juice
- 1 vanilla essence

For decoration:
- Cherry syrup (made from cherry juice with sugar, boiled until thickened)

Details about Ingredients

- Cherries: Choose fresh, ripe cherries for an intense flavor. If you don’t have access to fresh cherries, you can use canned cherries, but make sure to drain them well.
- Sugar: Sugar is essential not only for sweetness but also for stabilizing the meringue. Use granulated sugar for the meringue, and for the base, you can opt for powdered sugar if you want a finer texture.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs help aerate the batter and achieve a perfectly stable meringue.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Base:
- In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a mixer until foamy, then gradually add the sugar and continue beating until you achieve a stiff, glossy meringue.
- In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the vanilla essence, then gently fold them into the egg white foam using a spatula.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together and gradually add them to the egg mixture, mixing carefully to avoid losing air in the batter.
- Prepare a baking tray (about 30x40 cm) greased with oil and dusted with flour. Pour the batter into the tray and level it evenly.
- Add the cherries on top of the batter, distributing them evenly.

2. Baking the Base:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the base for 20 minutes. Check if it’s done using the toothpick method – it should come out clean.

3. Preparing the Meringue:
- While the base is baking, prepare the meringue. Beat the egg whites with the mixer until firm, then add the lemon juice and vanilla essence.
- Continue beating, adding the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the meringue becomes shiny and forms stiff peaks.

4. Finalizing the Baking:
- After 20 minutes of baking the base, take the tray out of the oven and evenly spread the meringue on top.
- Put the tray back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the meringue is slightly golden and firm on top.

5. Preparing the Cherry Syrup:
- Use the juice left from the cherries and mix it with sugar, then boil until thickened. This will be the perfect syrup to decorate the cake.

6. Serving:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting it. Use a knife dipped in warm water to achieve perfect slices.
- Serve the cake with the cherry syrup alongside it for an explosion of flavor in every bite.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, adding an extra touch of creaminess. You can also experiment with other fruits, such as cherries or raspberries, to create a cake with a different flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can replace the cherries with cherries, raspberries, or peaches, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store the cake? You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Is it suitable for vegans? This recipe contains eggs, but you can experiment with egg substitutes (e.g., banana puree or a mix of flaxseeds with water) to create a vegan version.

Nutritional Benefits

This cherry cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a healthy diet. The base contains carbohydrates from flour, and although the meringue is sweet, it is a good source of protein due to the egg whites. However, it’s best to consume this cake in moderation, considering its sugar content.

In conclusion, the cherry and meringue cake is a dessert that blends tradition with innovation, bringing joy and flavor in every slice. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe is sure to impress anyone! Enjoy every moment of cooking and savor the final result!