Cherry Cake

Cherry Cake - a delicious and aromatic recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't love a tasty, fluffy cake full of flavors? Cherry cake is a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a party, a gathering with friends, or simply a quiet afternoon at home. This cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly tasty, with cherries adding a refreshing touch that makes it irresistible.

History and Inspiration

Fruit cakes have a long-standing tradition, being made by generations in various corners of the world. Throughout history, these desserts have been used not only to sweeten meals but also to celebrate special moments. Cherries, with their distinct flavor and acidity, are a popular choice in cakes, providing a delicious contrast to the sweetness of sugar. This recipe is one of the simplest and quickest ways to use seasonal cherries.

Necessary Ingredients

- 4 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 6 tablespoons oil
- 5 tablespoons thick yogurt (preferably)
- 1 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Grated zest of one orange
- A pinch of salt
- Fresh, pitted cherries (about 200-250 g)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Preparing the Ingredients

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a uniform and well-integrated composition. Eggs, yogurt, and oil mix better when not cold. Start by pitting the cherries if you haven't already. They can be used fresh or frozen, noting that frozen cherries may add a little extra moisture.

Step by Step: How to Make Cherry Cake

1. Beating the Eggs: In a large bowl, add the 4 eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients at medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until you get a fluffy and light-colored mixture. It is essential for the eggs to be well incorporated to achieve a fluffy cake.

2. Adding the Oil: Continue mixing and gradually add the oil. Ensure it is well incorporated into the mixture. The oil will give the cake a soft and moist texture.

3. Including the Yogurt and Flavor: Add the yogurt and the grated orange zest. Mix everything until the ingredients are well integrated. The orange flavor will add a touch of freshness and a wonderful taste.

4. Combining the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients will help the cake rise evenly. Gradually add them to the wet mixture, gently mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon to avoid lumps.

5. Pouring the Mixture into the Pan: Prepare a baking pan (approximately 20x30 cm) and grease it well with oil or line it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface with a spatula.

6. Adding the Cherries: Place the cherries on top of the mixture, gently pressing them into the batter. This will ensure that the cherries are not completely on the surface, and their flavor will blend perfectly with the cake.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake for about 40 minutes. Check the cake using the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

8. Cooling and Serving: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. It is recommended to refrigerate it for a few hours or even overnight; this will intensify the flavors and improve the texture.

9. Finishing Touch: Before serving, dust the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant look. Cut into portions and enjoy every slice.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of citrus tea. You can also serve it with warm chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! This recipe adapts very well to other seasonal fruits, such as peaches, plums, or blueberries.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar by up to 1/4 of the total recommended, especially if the fruits are very sweet.
- Is there a gluten-free version? Yes! You can replace the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend, just make sure to add a binding agent, such as xanthan gum.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is a good source of protein due to the eggs and yogurt, while cherries provide an important supply of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Moderation in consuming cakes can be part of a balanced diet, so don't hesitate to treat yourself occasionally to a slice of cherry cake.

Unique Recipe Variation

For an even more intense flavor, you can add some chopped nuts or almonds to the mixture for added texture. You can also try a white chocolate glaze over the cake for a decadent dessert!

Conclusion

Cherry cake is more than just a simple dessert; it's an explosion of flavors and a great way to bring a touch of joy to every day. Enjoy this simple and delicious recipe, share it with loved ones, and let yourself be carried away by the unmistakable tastes of this wonderful cake. Enjoy!