Cherry cake

Cherry cake – a classic delight, easy to make and extremely tasty, perfect for adding a sweet and fruity touch to any meal. This recipe, with a rich history, has been enjoyed by many generations, each contributing its own twist. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, the cherry cake will surely become a favorite in your home.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

Ingredients:
- 9 eggs
- 450 g sugar
- 500 g flour
- 3/4 cup oil
- 1 cup sparkling water
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- 1 kg fresh cherries (or pitted canned cherries)

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Before you start, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a fluffier texture. If using fresh cherries, ensure they are well washed and pitted. If opting for canned cherries, drain them well to avoid a wet batter.

Step 2: Separate the eggs
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential to have two clean bowls, as any trace of fat in the egg whites will prevent them from whipping.

Step 3: Whipping the yolks
In the bowl with the yolks, add the sugar (450 g) and beat well for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and doubles in volume. This step is crucial as the air incorporated at this stage will help the cake rise.

Step 4: Adding the wet ingredients
After the yolks have been whipped, add the oil, vanilla sugar, and sparkling water. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

Step 5: Incorporating the flour
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the yolk mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. It is important to add the flour gradually to achieve a smooth batter.

Step 6: Preparing the egg whites
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step will ensure a fluffy texture for the cake. Use a spatula to gently fold the egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate the incorporated air.

Step 7: Assembling the cake
Prepare a large baking tray (approximately 40x30 cm) by greasing it with oil and lining it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the tray and smooth it out. Place the cherries on top of the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 8: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, until it develops a nice brown crust on top. It is recommended to do the toothpick test: insert a toothpick in the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Step 9: Cooling and serving
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving and suggestions
This cherry cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A cup of tea or coffee will perfectly complement this sweet treat.

Nutritional benefits
Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and can contribute to a healthy immune system. Additionally, these fruits have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Yes, you can replace cherries with cherries, peaches, or blueberries, depending on your preferences.

2. What can I do if I don’t have sparkling water?
You can use still water, but sparkling water helps achieve a fluffier cake due to the carbonation bubbles.

3. How can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it.

Variations
For a personal touch, add a little vanilla or lemon zest to the batter. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour, for a healthier version.

Now that you have gone through every step of this delicious cherry cake recipe, you are ready to impress everyone with your cooking skills! Enjoy!