Cherry cake

Cherry Cake - A Sweet Sunday Fantasy

Sunday is a special day, isn't it? It's the perfect time to indulge in something sweet, and this cherry cake recipe is ideal for bringing smiles to the faces of our loved ones. The inspiration for this delicacy comes from traditional recipes that combine the flavors of fruit with the fluffy texture of the batter. Let's discover together how we can bring magic into our kitchen!

Preparation and Baking Time

- Total time: 1 hour
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 25-30 minutes
- Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 500 g frozen cherries
- 1 cup of sugar (approximately 200 g)
- 6 eggs
- 6 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- Juice of one lemon
- 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa (depending on preference)
- Flavors (vanilla or rum, to taste)

The History of Cherry Cake

Cherry cake is a recipe that combines the sweetness and acidity of the fruit, offering a perfect contrast. This combination has been appreciated over the decades, often served at festive meals or as an everyday dessert. Cherries, known for their nutritional benefits, are an excellent source of antioxidants and vitamins, as well as a versatile ingredient in pastry.

Making Cherry Cake - Step by Step

1. Preparing the Cherries:
- Remove the cherries from the freezer and let them thaw in a bowl for a few hours. Add a cup of sugar over them and mix gently. This step will help extract the juices from the cherries, giving them a sweet and aromatic flavor.

2. Preparing the Batter:
- In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the yolks with the powdered sugar until creamy and light in color. Add the lemon juice and chosen flavors (vanilla or rum) for extra flavor.

3. Incorporating the Ingredients:
- Sift the flour and gradually add it to the yolk mixture, mixing with a spatula until well combined. It is important not to overmix the batter to avoid losing the incorporated air.

4. Beating the Egg Whites:
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Add one tablespoon of egg whites to the yolk mixture and gently fold in using a spatula to maintain the air in the mixture.

5. Separating the Mixtures:
- Divide the batter into two equal parts. In one part, add the cocoa, mixing gently until fully incorporated.

6. Arranging in the Baking Pan:
- Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the white batter into the pan, followed by the cocoa batter. Use a spatula to evenly distribute the batter. On top, place the thawed cherries, making sure to distribute them evenly.

7. Baking the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cake turns golden and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done).

8. Serving:
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut it into squares and sprinkle powdered sugar on top. A special detail: to enhance the appearance of the cake, you can add a few fresh mint leaves as decoration.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Cake

- Cherries: Make sure the cherries are well-thawed to avoid excess water in the batter. If using fresh cherries, don't forget to pit them.
- Cocoa: If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of cocoa, but be careful to adjust the sugar amount to maintain balance.
- Vegan Option: You can replace the eggs with a combination of banana puree (1 medium banana = 1 egg) or a flaxseed paste.

Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This cherry cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, a cup of aromatic coffee or a fruit tea will make this dessert a complete treat. If you want to experiment, try serving the cake with warm chocolate sauce or caramel sauce.

Nutritional Benefits

Cherries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, which contribute to skin and immune system health. They also contain fiber that aids digestion. This cake, while delicious, should be consumed in moderation due to the sugar and fat content in the batter.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
- Of course! This recipe is versatile. You can use cherries, blueberries, or peaches.

2. How do I store the cake?
- Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

3. Can I freeze portions?
- Yes, the cake can be frozen. Cut the portions, let them cool completely, then wrap them well before placing them in the freezer.

Regardless of the occasion, cherry cake is a dessert that will bring joy and flavor to every meal. So, let's put on our aprons and get to work! The fresh taste of cherries, along with the fluffy texture of the cake, will turn an ordinary Sunday into a memorable day. Enjoy!