Cherry Cake

Cherry Cake: A Summer Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Introduction

Cherry cake is a true delicacy that combines the sweetness and tartness of fresh fruits with a fluffy and aromatic base. This recipe is perfect for warm summer days when cherries are in season, but it can be enjoyed at any time of the year, bringing a touch of freshness to any meal. With a light texture and delicious flavor, the cake quickly becomes a favorite among loved ones.

A Bit of History

Over time, fruit cakes have been a wonderful way to make the most of summer harvests. Cherries, with their distinct taste, have been appreciated in various cultures for their nutritional properties and their ability to transform simple desserts into culinary masterpieces. This cherry cake is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create moments of indulgence.

Necessary Ingredients

- 500 g pitted cherries
- 5-7 eggs (depending on their size)
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of flour
- ½ cup of oil
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Butter for greasing the pan

Tips Regarding Ingredients

- Cherries: Make sure to use fresh, ripe, and blemish-free cherries. If you don’t have fresh cherries, you can use frozen cherries, but ensure they are thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential for achieving a fluffy base. If possible, opt for eggs from free-range hens.
- Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized taste or with alternative sweeteners if you want a healthier version.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the cherries: Start by pitting the cherries. If you have a special pitting tool, use it; otherwise, you can use a teaspoon or a small knife. Place the cherries in a bowl and sprinkle a little flour over them – this trick will help prevent the cherries from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking.

2. Preparing the pan: Grease a baking tray with butter and dust it with flour, ensuring it is well-covered to prevent the cake from sticking.

3. Beating the egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until frothy. Gradually add sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes firm and glossy.

4. Mixing the yolks: In another bowl, mix the yolks well with the oil. Add the beaten egg whites and gently fold in using a spatula, from top to bottom, to avoid losing the air in the egg whites.

5. Incorporating the flour: Add the flour mixed with baking powder to the egg mixture, stirring well until homogenized.

6. Pouring the mixture: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the surface. Distribute the cherries evenly over the entire surface of the cake, lightly sprinkling them with flour to prevent sinking.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the cake for about 45 minutes or until golden and passes the toothpick test.

8. Cooling: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

Serving and Recommendations

The cherry cake can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or alongside a serving of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Another delicious option is to serve it with warm chocolate sauce or a fruit coulis.

Nutritional Benefits

Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber, contributing to cardiovascular health and improving digestion. Additionally, this cake has a moderate calorie content, making it a lighter option compared to other fat-rich desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can replace cherries with cherries, blueberries, or peaches, easily adapting the recipe to your preferences.
- What if I don’t have vanilla sugar? You can use vanilla extract or omit the vanilla sugar completely; the dessert will still be delicious.
- How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week.

Possible Variations

To add a personal touch, you can try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or lemon zest to the batter. Also, if you like nuts, you can sprinkle chopped nuts over the cherries for added texture and flavor.

In conclusion, cherry cake is a simple yet extremely tasty dessert, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself during your moments of relaxation. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you will create a cake that will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy!