Cherry cake with maple syrup

Cherry and Maple Syrup Cake: A Sweet Delicacy for Unforgettable Moments

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-55 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Who can resist a delicious cherry cake, with a deep cocoa flavor and the sweetness of maple syrup? This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a culinary experience that combines the juicy flavors of fresh cherries with the richness of chocolate. Perfect for summer meals or to bring a touch of joy to cooler days, this simple and quick recipe is ideal for any cooking enthusiast.

A Brief History of Fruit Cakes

Fruit cakes have been made for centuries, serving as an excellent way to use seasonal produce. While recipes vary from culture to culture, the idea of combining the natural sweetness of fruits with a fluffy batter has remained constant. Today, cherry cakes are often associated with childhood memories, when cherries were picked straight from the trees and transformed into delicious treats.

Necessary Ingredients

To create this cherry and maple syrup cake, you will need the following ingredients:

- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- 150 ml maple syrup
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 25 g cocoa powder
- 350 g pitted cherries
- Powdered vanilla sugar for decoration

Step by Step: Making the Cake

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure the butter is at room temperature so it mixes easily. Buy fresh, ripe cherries but avoid those that are soft or spoiled; choosing quality fruit is essential for a perfect taste.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, add the softened butter, maple syrup, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to combine the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture.

3. Beating the eggs: In another bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. This step helps incorporate air into the mixture, ensuring a fluffy cake. Then, gradually add the beaten eggs to the butter mixture, stirring with a spatula to avoid losing the air from the eggs.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: Sifting the flour and baking powder together ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, gently mixing until fully integrated. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense cake.

5. Preparing the pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a round baking pan (22-24 cm) with butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

6. Adding the cherries: Place the pitted cherries on top of the batter, pressing them gently to incorporate them into the cake. The cherries will add moisture and a fresh flavor to your cake, turning it into a true delight.

7. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is an essential technique for checking if the cake is baked evenly.

8. Cooling: After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps maintain the cake's texture, avoiding excess moisture.

9. Serving: Once the cake has completely cooled, dust it with powdered vanilla sugar for an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness. You can cut it into generous portions and serve it plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This will perfectly contrast the intense flavors of the cake.

Practical Tips

- Choosing cherries: If you can’t find fresh cherries, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to let them thaw and drain excess water before use.
- Variations: You can replace cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create a cake with different flavors.
- For added texture: Add some chopped nuts or almonds to the batter for a delicious crunch.

Nutritional Benefits

The cherry and maple syrup cake is a healthier choice compared to other desserts, thanks to its natural ingredients. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. Maple syrup is a natural alternative to refined sugar, having a lower glycemic index.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of sweeteners?
Yes, you can experiment with honey or agave, but keep in mind that each sweetener has a different taste and texture.

2. How do I keep the cake fresh?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it, making sure to wrap it well.

3. What drinks pair well with it?
This cake pairs perfectly with a warm fruit tea or a sweet wine that complements the flavors of the cherries.

I hope this cherry and maple syrup cake recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and in moments of sweet indulgence. Enjoy!