Cherry cake

Cherry cake - a delicacy that brings a touch of summer to every slice! This simple and quick recipe will delight you with its delicious fruity aroma and fluffy texture. Preparing this dessert will take you on a culinary journey, and the result will reward you with every bite. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

- 1 pack of margarine (250 g) - make sure it is at room temperature for easy incorporation into the mixture
- 400 g sugar - you can use white sugar or brown sugar for a more caramelized taste
- 5 eggs - separate the yolks from the whites
- 1 packet of baking powder (10 g) - to achieve a fluffy cake
- 350 g flour - choose a good quality flour for the best results
- 500 g cherries - fresh or from a jar, but make sure they are well drained of juice

A brief history of cherry cake:

Cherry cake is a classic dessert, beloved by many generations. Its origins are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, where seasonal fruits are integrated into simple yet delicious recipes. The cherries, with their tart flavor, provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the batter. This cake is often made in families, bringing together generations and pleasant memories.

Step by step for a perfect cake:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the margarine is soft and the cherries are well drained if using jarred cherries. Preheat the oven to 180°C to have it ready when the batter is prepared.

2. Creaming margarine and sugar: In a large bowl, add the pack of margarine and the 400 g of sugar. Using an electric mixer or a spatula, beat the ingredients well until you achieve a creamy and smooth mixture. This step is essential to incorporate air into the batter, which will make the cake fluffy.

3. Adding the yolks: Add the yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will ensure an even integration of the eggs into the mixture.

4. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Dissolve the baking powder in a few tablespoons of warm milk, then add the flour mixture to the margarine cream. Mix gently with a spatula until the ingredients are combined.

5. Beating the egg whites: In another clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add them to the cake mixture, gently folding from the bottom up to avoid losing air from the whites. This step is crucial for achieving an airy texture.

6. Preparing the pan: Grease a baking dish with margarine or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

7. Adding the cherries: Place the cherries on top of the batter. If using jarred cherries, make sure they are well drained to avoid adding water to the batter. You can sprinkle a little sugar over them to enhance the flavor.

8. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and let the cake bake for 30-35 minutes, or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, it's baked).

9. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant and delicious look.

10. Enjoying the cake: Cut the cake into squares or triangles and serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic tea. The combination of cherries with a cold scoop of ice cream will create a delightful contrast on your taste buds.

Useful tips:

- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla essence or lemon zest to the cake mixture.
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as cherries or raspberries, to diversify the recipe.
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar by 100 g.

Nutritional benefits:

This cake contains ingredients that provide energy due to the carbohydrates in flour and sugar. Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them excellent for immune system health. Additionally, this cake can be a wonderful dessert to celebrate special occasions or simply to treat the family!

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of margarine? Yes, you can use butter instead of margarine, but it will slightly change the texture and flavor of the cake.
- How can I store the cake? You can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
- Is it possible to freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake, but it's recommended to cut it into portions before freezing. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

In conclusion, cherry cake is an excellent choice for any occasion, easy to prepare and full of flavor. Experimenting with various ingredients can transform this classic recipe into a personal favorite. So, embark on the cooking adventure and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!