Cherry Cake

Cherry Cake - A Summer Delight

Cherry cake, also known as "meggyes lepény," is a traditional recipe that brings a touch of joy to every day. This simple cake is perfect for making use of ripe cherries that have gone uneaten, transforming them into an absolutely delicious dessert. Often served at breakfast or as a snack, this cake is versatile and can be adapted with other seasonal fruits, cottage cheese, or jams.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 12

Ingredients
- 500 g fresh cherries, pitted and washed
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup (approximately 130 g) flour
- A pinch of salt
- Breadcrumbs, for greasing the pan
- Vanilla sugar and powdered sugar, for decoration

A Bit of History
Cherry cake is a recipe that combines tradition with simplicity, having deep roots in European cuisine. It is a popular choice in many regions when a quick and tasty dessert is desired. Its square or rectangular shape, indicated by the term "lepény," has become a symbol of an easily portioned and served dessert.

Step by Step: How to Make Cherry Cake

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by bringing all the ingredients to room temperature. This step is essential as room temperature ingredients mix better, providing a uniform texture to the batter.

2. Preparing the Oven and the Pan
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking pan with parchment paper. To ensure the paper stays in place, lightly grease the pan with a bit of butter before placing the paper. A useful technique is to cut the corners of the paper diagonally, making it easier to fit into the pan. Then, grease the lined pan with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking.

3. Making the Batter
In a large bowl or the bowl of a mixer, melt the butter over moderate heat. Add half of the sugar and mix until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. Use a mixer, whisk, or wooden spoon. Add your favorite flavors, such as vanilla or lemon zest, and then incorporate the egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Add the sifted flour and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients are well integrated.

4. Beating the Egg Whites
Thoroughly clean the mixer blades and ensure they are grease-free. Beat the egg whites until frothy, gradually adding the remaining sugar until you achieve stiff peaks that leave trails when you lift the whisk. This step will ensure a fluffy cake.

5. Combining the Mixtures
Gently fold the egg whites into the butter mixture, mixing from the bottom up. It is important not to overmix, as this would deflate the air in the mixture. Once the ingredients are homogenous, pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with the back of a wet spoon.

6. Placing the Cherries and Baking
Arrange the cherry halves cut side down on top of the batter. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the cake turns golden and the fruits are set. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

7. Finishing and Serving
Let the cake cool in the pan. Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar or vanilla sugar on top for an appealing finish. Cut the cake into squares or slices and serve with a fragrant tea or coffee. It pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce.

Practical Tips
- Alternative Fruits: If you don’t have cherries, you can try this recipe with cherries, peaches, or even berries. Each variation will give the cake a unique twist.
- Perfect Texture: Ensure that the batter is not overmixed once you have incorporated the egg whites, to maintain lightness and achieve a fluffy texture.
- Pan Care: The pan should be well-greased and dusted with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I use instead of cherries?
You can use any fresh fruits or even jams, depending on your preferences.

- Can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for a few days. You can gently reheat it before serving.

- Is it suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using vegan butter and flax eggs or other egg substitutes.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of cherry cake contains approximately 180 calories, making it a relatively light choice for dessert. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, providing benefits for heart health and the immune system.

Conclusion
Cherry cake is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. You can experiment with various ingredients and combinations, making each cake a unique creation. Whether served for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, it is a recipe that will surely be appreciated. So gather your ingredients, enjoy the cooking process, and savor each slice!