Cherry cake

Cherry Cake – A Sweet and Tart Delight

Searching for a recipe that combines the sweet flavor of cake with a touch of freshness from cherries? You've found it! This cherry cake is an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a birthday, a gathering with friends, or simply a personal treat. Plus, it's a pretty simple and quick recipe, perfect for any cooking enthusiast looking to impress.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 5 minutes (including cooling)
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

- 500-600 g cherries (pitted)
- 5 tablespoons sugar (for cherries)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 6 eggs
- 8 tablespoons sugar (for the base)
- 8 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons oil
- A pinch of salt
- Cream or whipped cream for decoration (optional, but recommended for an extra flavor)

Necessary utensils:

- A baking dish (recommended: non-stick or lined with parchment paper)
- A mixer or whisk
- A spatula
- A large mixing bowl
- A baking tray
- A serving platter

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Cherries: Start by washing the cherries well. Then, carefully remove the pits. This step is essential to enjoy the smooth texture of the cake. Once done, let the cherries drain to eliminate excess water.

2. Preheating the Oven: Preheat the oven to 165 degrees Celsius. This step is important to ensure even baking of the cake.

3. Arranging the Cherries: In the baking dish, place the pitted cherries. Sprinkle the 5 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla sugar on top. This combination will add a pleasant sweetness, balancing the tartness of the cherries.

4. Preparing the Base: In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a stiff foam. Gradually add the 8 tablespoons of sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to mix. It is essential for the sugar to dissolve completely to achieve an airy foam.

5. Incorporating the Yolks: Once the egg whites are well beaten, add the yolks and gently mix with a spatula. It is important not to mix too vigorously to avoid losing air in the mixture.

6. Adding Flour and Oil: Sift the flour over the egg mixture and gently mix until the ingredients are almost homogenized. Add the 2 tablespoons of oil and continue to mix carefully. This oil will add moisture and a pleasant texture to the base.

7. Pouring the Mixture: Pour the obtained batter over the cherries in the dish. Make sure the base covers the fruit evenly for even baking.

8. Baking the Cake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. It is very important to do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

9. Cooling the Cake: Once it has passed the test, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the dish for about 2 hours. Although the recipe recommends 10-12 hours of cooling, 2 hours is sufficient, especially if you're eager to taste it.

10. Inverting the Cake: After it has cooled, place a platter on top of the dish and with a firm motion, invert the cake. The cherries should remain on top, giving it an appetizing appearance.

11. Decorating: If you want to add extra flavor, you can mix the cream with sugar to obtain a delicate whipped cream. Use it to decorate the cake. This step is optional, but it will add a touch of elegance.

Practical Tips:

- About Cherries: If you don't have access to fresh cherries, you can use frozen cherries. Make sure to let them thaw completely before using.
- The Oil: You can experiment with flavored oils, such as almond or coconut oil, to add a unique note to the base.
- Vegan Option: If you want to try a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of chia seeds and water or with applesauce.
- Serving: This cake is delicious both plain and with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Nutritional Benefits:

This cherry cake is not only tasty but also full of nutritional benefits. Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to heart health and improving sleep. Additionally, flour and eggs provide necessary proteins and carbohydrates for energy.

Calories:

A serving of this cake has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It's a delightful dessert, but it won't make you feel guilty!

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can replace the cherries with cherries, raspberries, or peaches, depending on your preferences.

- How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.

- Is this cake suitable for children?
Absolutely! It's a wonderful dessert for kids, due to its pleasant taste and healthy fruits.

I invite you to try this simple and delicious cherry cake recipe. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, I'm sure it will become one of your favorites! Enjoy!