Cherry cake

Cherry Cake – A Delight That Will Enchant Your Senses

Nothing compares to the warm aroma of a freshly baked cake, and when it is enriched with juicy cherries, it becomes a true delicacy. This cherry cake recipe is not only simple but also quick, perfect for moments when you crave a delightful dessert with easily accessible ingredients. Let’s embark on this culinary journey!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 8 servings

Necessary ingredients for the cake:

- 9 egg whites (or 4 large eggs, separated)
- 1 cup of sugar (approximately 200g)
- 1 cup of oil (approximately 240ml)
- 2 cups of flour (approximately 250g)
- 1 packet (10g) of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of cherries (from jam, fresh or frozen)

Before you start, here are some useful tips about the ingredients:

1. Egg whites: If using egg whites, ensure that there is no trace of yolk, as this may prevent achieving a stable foam.
2. Sugar: You can use white sugar, but for a more caramelized taste, brown sugar is an excellent choice.
3. Cherries: If using cherries from jam, drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the cake mixture. Fresh or frozen cherries are equally delicious, but make sure to thaw them beforehand and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by sifting the flour with the baking powder and salt. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and even texture for your cake. Use a fine sieve to aerate the flour, which will help form a lighter structure.

Step 2: Preparing the egg white foam

In a large bowl, add the egg whites and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites at medium speed. Continue beating until you achieve a stiff foam that does not fall off the whisk or mixer blades. This step is crucial, as well-beaten foam will give your cake a light and airy texture.

Step 3: Incorporating the oil

Gradually add the oil, gently folding with a spatula or wooden spoon until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the egg white foam; the movements should be delicate and from top to bottom.

Step 4: Adding the flour

Begin to add the sifted flour mixture gradually. Mix gently with the spatula, ensuring there are no lumps of flour, but without overmixing. This is an important technique that will keep the air in the mixture.

Step 5: Preparing the cake pan

Prepare a cake pan by greasing it with oil and dusting it with flour. This will prevent the cake from sticking and will make it easier to turn out after baking.

Step 6: Arranging the cherries

Once you have a homogeneous batter, take the cherries, drain them well, and if necessary, dust them with a little flour to help them not sink in the batter. Arrange the cherries on top of the mixture in the pan so that they are visible and add an appetizing look.

Step 7: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. Check if it’s done using a simple toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Step 8: Turning out and serving

Once the cake has cooled slightly, turn it out onto a platter and sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. This will add a touch of sweetness and beautify the dessert.

The story behind the cherry cake

The cake is a classic recipe that has been prepared in various forms over time. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but what remains constant is the versatility and love with which it is made. The addition of cherries brings a note of acidity, perfectly balancing the sweetness, turning each slice into an unforgettable experience.

Serving suggestions

This cherry cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic coffee, which perfectly complements the sweet-tart flavor. You can also accompany it with a dollop of whipped cream or a chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add chopped nuts or dark chocolate to the batter for an extra texture and flavor. You can also replace the cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to adapt the recipe to your preferences.

Nutritional benefits

This cake is a good source of protein due to the egg whites, and the cherries bring antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a healthier dessert. Although it is a delicacy, when consumed in moderation, it can be effectively integrated into a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use yolks instead of egg whites?
Answer: You can, but you will need to adjust the proportions. Using 4 large eggs, separate the yolks from the whites, beat the whites separately, and add them to the mixture at the end.

2. How can I keep the cake fresh?
Answer: Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, away from light. It can easily be consumed for 3-4 days.

3. What else can I use instead of cherries?
Answer: You can experiment with peaches, plums, or even cranberries for a different flavor.

This cherry cake is not just a recipe; it is a story about the love for cooking, about moments spent with loved ones, and about the joy of sharing a slice of delight. Try making it and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!