Cherry cake

Cherry Cake - a delicious and refreshing recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Introduction

If you are looking for a quick and simple dessert that can bring a touch of freshness at any time of the day, the cherry cake is the ideal choice. This cake is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a visual treat, with an attractive contrast between the red of the cherries and the fluffy white of the batter. It is said that this recipe was created over time in the kitchens of those who appreciated the perfect combination of sweet and tart, highlighting seasonal fruits.

I invite you to discover with me how to prepare this delicious dessert, step by step.

Ingredients

- 3 eggs
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 200 g flour
- 200 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 1 packet baking powder
- Zest from 1/2 lemon (for a fresh taste)
- A handful of cherries (about 150-200 g), fresh or frozen

Preparation

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure no yolk remains in the whites, as this will affect their ability to foam.

2. Mixing the yolks: In a large bowl, add the yolks and gradually pour in the oil, as if making mayonnaise. This step is crucial for achieving an airy and fluffy cake. Mix well until the mixture is homogeneous.

3. Preparing the dry ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. This will help to evenly distribute the baking powder throughout the mixture and prevent lumps from forming.

4. Adding lemon: Quench the baking powder with lemon juice (about 1-2 tablespoons) and add it to the yolk mixture. Also add the grated lemon zest, which will provide a fresh and vibrant taste.

5. Beating the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with the sugar and vanilla sugar until you obtain a firm foam. It is important to use a clean mixer and not to add oil or water, otherwise the foam will not form.

6. Combining the ingredients: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture using a spatula and mixing lightly from top to bottom. Then, add the flour in a rain, mixing gently to avoid losing air from the mixture.

7. Preparing the cherries: If using frozen cherries, make sure they are thawed and drained of excess juice. Sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the cherries to sweeten them and help them not to sink in the batter.

8. Baking: Pour the mixture into a loaf pan lined with baking paper. Sprinkle the cherries on top, so that they are evenly distributed. Place the pan in the preheated oven at 180°C and let it bake for 30 minutes.

9. Toothpick test: After 30 minutes, test the cake with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready! If not, leave it in the oven for a few more minutes.

10. Finishing: After removing the cake from the oven, brush it with the syrup made from the juice left by the frozen cherries mixed with a little sugar. This will give it a glossy and delicious appearance.

Serving

Let the cake cool completely before slicing. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of flavor. This cherry cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of green tea or a flavorful espresso, making it a perfect dessert for a relaxing afternoon.

Practical Tips

- For a more intense flavor, you can also add a little almond extract to the yolk mixture.
- If you don't have cherries, you can use sour cherries, raspberries, or even blueberries, depending on your preferences.
- The cake keeps well at room temperature for up to 3 days, or it can be frozen to enjoy later.

Nutritional Benefits

This cherry cake is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cherries are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, having anti-inflammatory properties. Eggs provide essential proteins, while olive oil or sunflower oil offers healthy fatty acids.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but you may need to adjust the quantities to achieve a similar texture.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the cake? Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and aromatic note.

3. Can I add nuts or almonds? Absolutely! Chopped nuts or almonds can add a crunchy texture and wonderful flavor.

4. How can I make the cake less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or use a natural sugar substitute.

Conclusion

The cherry cake is a simple and versatile recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you want a quick dessert for a gathering with friends or wish to indulge in something sweet after a long day, this recipe will not disappoint. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy every step of this culinary experience!