Cherry Cake

The Mari Cherry Cake is a refined and delicious dessert, perfect for impressing guests at any special event. This recipe combines the fluffy texture of the sponge cake with the richness of the cream and the unmistakable taste of cherries, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to discover step by step how to make this delicious cake, with helpful tips and tricks to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

Sponge:
- 12 fresh eggs
- 12 tablespoons of sugar
- 200 g flour
- 50 g cocoa
- 3 vials of vanilla essence
- 1 packet of baking powder

Cream:
- 10 egg yolks
- 500 g margarine (we recommend Rama margarine for a creamy texture)
- 600 g sugar
- 100 g cocoa
- 125 ml water
- 3 vials of rum essence
- 2 tablespoons of instant coffee
- Pitted cherries from cherry liqueur (about 200 g)
- Diced candied orange peel (2 teaspoons)

Syrup:
- 1 l Pepsi + 100 ml champagne (or Garrone for a more sophisticated taste)

Glaze:
- 200 g milk chocolate with hazelnuts or
- 100 g milk chocolate and 100 g white chocolate, melted in a double boiler with a little oil

Preparation Instructions

1. Preparing the Sponge
1. Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Use a large bowl for the egg whites so you have enough space to whip them.
2. Beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed, gradually adding the sugar. Continue until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue.
3. In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the vanilla essence until you have a homogeneous mixture. Carefully add them over the whipped egg whites, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air.
4. Sift the flour, cocoa, and baking powder directly over the egg mixture. Gently incorporate the dry ingredients using soft folding motions from top to bottom.
5. Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake at 180°C for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the sponge to cool to room temperature, ideally overnight.

2. Preparing the Cream
1. In a saucepan, add the water and sugar. Place over low heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the cocoa and continue to stir until well combined.
2. Once the syrup has boiled once, remove it from the heat and add the rum essence and instant coffee. Allow to cool.
3. Meanwhile, in the bowl with the softened margarine, add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing vigorously after each addition. This will give the cream a smooth and creamy texture.
4. Once the syrup has cooled to finger temperature, gradually pour it over the whipped margarine, mixing with the mixer on low speed to avoid curdling the cream.
5. After the cream is well combined, let it chill in the refrigerator for about an hour to firm up slightly.

3. Assembling the Cake
1. Cut the sponge into three equal parts. Use a long, sharp knife to make precise cuts.
2. Prepare the syrup from Pepsi and champagne. Using a brush, generously soak each layer of sponge.
3. On the first soaked sponge layer, spread a layer of cream, followed by the cherries from the cherry liqueur and the diced candied orange peel.
4. Repeat the process for the second layer, then place the last sponge layer on top, which will remain smooth.
5. Prepare the glaze by melting the chocolate in a double boiler, mixing with a little oil to achieve a glossy consistency. Pour the glaze evenly over the cake and let it set.

Serving and Decorating
Decorating the cake is an essential part, so let your imagination run wild! You can sprinkle grated chocolate, nuts, or even edible flowers. Serving this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruit sauce will add an even more special touch.

Personal Note
This cake has always been a favorite in my family, often prepared for birthdays or reunions. Its secret lies in the perfect balance between the fluffy texture of the sponge and the rich cream, while the cherries bring a touch of freshness. Every bite will bring a smile to your face!

Nutritional Benefits
The Mari Cherry Cake is a delight, but it is important to consume it in moderation. Each serving contains approximately 450 calories due to the rich ingredients. However, the cherries provide antioxidants and vitamins, and the orange peel adds a boost of fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute margarine with butter? Yes, you can use butter, but you will need to adjust the amount as butter has a richer taste.
2. Is it possible to use other fruits? Sure! You can experiment with strawberries, raspberries, or peaches, depending on your preferences.
3. How can I keep the cake fresh? Store it in a cake box in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for a few days.

Now you are ready to prepare a Mari Cherry Cake, a dessert that will surely become a favorite among your loved ones! Enjoy!