Cherry and strawberry cake

Cherry and Strawberry Cake – a sweet delicacy, perfect for warm summer days or whenever you crave a fresh and flavorful snack. This recipe combines the tartness of cherries with the sweetness of strawberries, resulting in a fluffy and moist cake that is sure to impress any guest.

Before you begin, it's important to remember that fruit cakes have a long-standing tradition in the kitchen, often prepared for holidays or festive meals. This simple and quick recipe is ideal for bringing a touch of joy to your table without requiring advanced cooking skills.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:
- 250 g cherries (washed and pitted)
- 250 g strawberries (washed and halved)
- 2 eggs (fresh, preferably from free-range hens)
- 6 tablespoons of oil (you can use sunflower or olive oil)
- 8 tablespoons of milk (cow's milk or plant-based milk, depending on your preference)
- 10 tablespoons of sugar (adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the fruits)
- 250 g flour (white or whole wheat, according to your preference)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 1 packet of baking powder (for a fluffy texture)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the cherries and strawberries thoroughly. Make sure the cherries are pitted to avoid any unpleasant surprises when serving. You can halve the strawberries, and if they are too large, you can quarter them.

2. Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, add the 2 eggs and sugar. Use a mixer to beat the ingredients well until you achieve a frothy and homogeneous mixture. Then, add the oil, milk, and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix on low speed to avoid splattering.

3. Incorporate the flour: Begin to add the flour, baking powder, and salt. It's important to sift the flour before adding it to prevent lumps. Mix gently until you obtain a homogeneous batter, but do not overmix – the secret to a fluffy cake is to avoid overbeating the batter.

4. Prepare the baking pan: Take a 28 cm tart pan and grease it with butter, then sprinkle a little flour on the bottom and sides to prevent the cake from sticking.

5. Add the fruits: Pour the batter into the pan, leveling it evenly. Carefully place the cherries and strawberries on top, making sure to distribute them evenly for a beautifully colored and fragrant cake.

6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake for 10 minutes at this temperature. Then, reduce the temperature to 150°C and let it continue baking for another 15-20 minutes.

7. Check for doneness: To ensure the cake is ready, you can perform the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

8. Cooling and serving: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once it is fully cooled, you can cut it into slices and dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Useful tips:
- Seasonal fruits: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits such as raspberries, peaches, or even blueberries. Each will add a unique touch to your cake.
- Brown sugar: If you prefer a deeper flavor, use brown sugar instead of white sugar.
- Vegan option: Replace the eggs with 1/2 ripe banana or 60 g of vegan yogurt. These will maintain the moisture and texture of the cake.
- Serve with ice cream: A slice of cake paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt will make this dessert a delightful indulgence.

Nutritional benefits:
Cherries and strawberries are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. Cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while strawberries are excellent for cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be slightly different.
- How can I store the cake? You can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

This cherry and strawberry cake is not only a simple and quick recipe but also a wonderful way to bring nature to your table. Enjoy every slice and the flavors of this delicacy that will turn any meal into a special occasion. Bon appétit!