Cherry cake

Cherry Cake: A Sweet and Tart Delight

Who doesn't love a fluffy cake with a filling of aromatic fruits? Cherry cake is a simple and delicious dessert, perfect for hot summer days and any special occasion. This recipe will not only remind you of childhood but will also turn your cooking moments into a true pleasure. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious cake, step by step!

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
- Servings: 12

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 5 fresh eggs
- 14 tablespoons of sugar
- 10 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil, depending on taste)
- 14 tablespoons of milk (you can use cow's milk or plant-based milk, as preferred)
- 16 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (about 10 g)

*For the filling:*
- 500 g of fresh pitted cherries
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (to sprinkle over the cherries)

A Bit of History:
Cherry cake is part of the culinary tradition of many cultures, having deep roots in household practices. It is a perfect example of how seasonal ingredients can be transformed into unforgettable delights. The cherries, with their tart flavor, provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the dough, creating a harmony of flavors that delights the taste buds. It is a versatile dessert that can be easily adapted based on the available fruits.

Step by Step: Preparing the Cherry Cake:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps with better emulsification of the eggs with the sugar and a fluffier texture of the cake.

2. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the 5 eggs with 14 tablespoons of sugar until you obtain a frothy and light-colored mixture. This step is crucial as the air incorporated into the mixture will help the cake rise during baking.

3. Add the oil and milk: Gradually incorporate the 10 tablespoons of oil and the 14 tablespoons of milk. Mix gently to avoid losing air from the mixture.

4. Incorporate the flour and baking powder: Sift the 16 tablespoons of flour together with the baking powder into the egg mixture and gently mix with a spatula or whisk until everything is well combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense cake.

5. Prepare the cherries: While the dough is being prepared, wash the cherries, remove the pits, and sprinkle them with 2-3 tablespoons of sugar. Let them sit for a few minutes to marinate and release their juices.

6. Bake the first part of the dough: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour half of the dough mixture into the tray. Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the dough is almost cooked but not completely.

7. Add the cherries: Remove the tray from the oven and add the drained cherries on top of the dough. Make sure to distribute them evenly.

8. Complete with dough: Pour the remaining dough over the cherries, completely covering them. This will allow the cherries to integrate perfectly into the cake.

9. Bake the cake: Place the tray back in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the cake is nicely browned. Do the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

10. Cooling and serving: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. When it's still warm, sprinkle a generous layer of powdered sugar on top. This detail not only enhances the cake's appearance but also adds a pleasant contrast of sweetness.

11. Cutting and serving: Cut the cake into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. You can serve it plain, but it can be enhanced with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which will perfectly complement the cherry flavor.

Practical Tips:
- For a moister dough: Add a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream to the dough for an even fluffier texture.
- Fruit variations: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits like peaches, apricots, or raspberries. Each variation will give a unique taste to the cake.
- Flavoring: Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the dough for an extra hint of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:
Cherry cake is not only delicious but also beneficial! Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting heart health and the immune system. Additionally, this cake is a quick source of energy due to the natural sugars from the fruits.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use canned cherries? Yes, but make sure to drain them well before adding them to the cake.
2. How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can refrigerate it for a longer duration.
3. Can the cake be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen. Cut it into portions and wrap each portion in plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer.

Cherry cake is an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a gathering with friends, a family party, or simply to treat yourself. So, put on your apron and let's enjoy this delicacy together! Enjoy your meal!