Cherry and walnut cake

Cherry and Walnut Cake - An Irresistible Delight

I present to you a recipe that combines the sweetness of cherries with the crunchy texture of walnuts, resulting in an easy-to-make cake, perfect for any occasion. This cake is not just a simple dessert, but also a memory of childhood, when every Sunday meal was an opportunity to enjoy lovingly prepared delicacies. I invite you to discover the steps that will lead you to a spectacular final result!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 2 large eggs
- 14 tablespoons of sugar (approximately 210 g)
- 14 tablespoons of oil (approximately 210 ml)
- 14 tablespoons of milk (approximately 210 ml)
- 1 cup of flour (200-250 g)
- 1 packet of baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- Flavors of choice (vanilla essence, lemon zest)
- 100 g ground walnuts
- 200 g cherries (fresh or canned)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowl in which you will beat the egg whites is perfectly clean and dry, to achieve perfect foam.

Step 2: Beating the Egg Whites

Use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they become a firm foam. This step is essential as it will give the cake an airy texture. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a glossy and firm meringue.

Step 3: Combining the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, add the yolks, oil, and milk. Mix well, then add your favorite flavors. Vanilla essence and lemon zest bring a wonderful aroma to your cake, but you can experiment with other flavors, such as almonds or rum.

Step 4: Combining the Mixtures

Add the yolk mixture to the egg white meringue, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air from the mixture. Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually incorporate them into the mixture, stirring gently.

Step 5: Preparing the Baking Pan

Grease a baking pan with oil and dust it with flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. This will prevent the cake from sticking and will make it easier to remove from the pan.

Step 6: Adding the Cherries

Pour the mixture into the pan and spread it evenly. Before adding the cherries, lightly coat them in flour; this trick will help them not sink to the bottom of the cake. Carefully place the cherries on the surface of the mixture.

Step 7: Sprinkling the Walnuts

For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle the ground walnuts over the mixture. This will add a crunchy texture and a rich taste to your cake.

Step 8: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 minutes or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Step 9: Cooling and Serving

After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack. You can serve the cake plain or with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for a delicious contrast.

Tips and Practical Advice

- Cherries: If using canned cherries, make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- Walnuts: You can replace walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences. These variations will bring a different note to your cake.
- Decoration: A dusting of powdered sugar on top of the cake can make it look even more appetizing.
- Serving: The cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fragrant tea.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is a good source of antioxidants due to the cherries and walnuts, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins. It also contains carbohydrates from the flour that provide energy, making it ideal for a snack or dessert after a meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Of course! You can experiment with cherries, peaches, or apples, adapting the recipe to your preferences.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or can be frozen for later use.

3. Is it suitable for vegans?
To adapt the recipe to a vegan version, you can use an egg substitute (such as banana puree or soy yogurt) and plant-based milk.

Conclusion

The cherry and walnut cake is not just a simple recipe but a true feast for the senses. It can quickly become your and your loved ones' favorite, thanks to its delicious combination and perfect texture. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family to bring joy to every meal! Enjoy!