Cherry Pie from Compote

Cherry Compote Cake – a simple and delicious delicacy

The cherry compote cake is a dessert that brings a touch of joy at any time of the year. Whether it's a celebration, an anniversary, or just a family afternoon, this cake delights with its sweet-sour taste and airy texture. A versatile option that can be made with fresh cherries in season or with compote cherries year-round, this cake can quickly become your favorite.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 2-3 hours (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 10 servings

Necessary ingredients

For the cake:
- 150 g compote cherries (or fresh cherries)
- 250 g sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 6 eggs
- 250 g flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 30 ml oil
- a pinch of salt

For decoration:
- whipped cream
- a few compote cherries for garnish

Step by step to a perfect cake

1. Preparing the cherries
Start by removing the cherries from the compote and pitting them. It’s important to let them drain to remove excess juice, so your cake doesn’t become too wet. If using fresh cherries, wash them well and remove the pits.

2. Preparing the batter
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until it completely dissolves and you achieve a glossy meringue. This is the key to a fluffy and airy cake base.

3. Incorporating the ingredients
In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the oil and cinnamon. Add the yolk mixture to the egg whites, gently folding with a spatula using up-and-down motions to avoid losing air. Then, gradually incorporate the sifted flour, mixing carefully.

4. Preparing the baking pan
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking. You can use a round or square pan, depending on your preference.

5. Assembling the cake
Add the drained cherries to the prepared pan, sprinkle sugar and vanilla sugar on top for added flavor. Then pour the batter over the cherries, ensuring it spreads evenly.

6. Baking
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 30-35 minutes. Do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. After baking, let it cool in the pan for 2-3 hours.

7. Inverting the cake
Once cooled, take a flat plate and place it over the pan. Carefully invert the cake, giving it a few gentle taps on the bottom of the pan to help it come out.

8. Decorating
Whip the cream until it becomes firm and decorate the top of the cake. Add a few compote cherries for an attractive look. You can also sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Helpful tips

- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of rum or almond extract to the batter.
- If you prefer a moister cake, you can drizzle the base with a sugar syrup (made from water and sugar) before decorating with whipped cream.
- Variations: This recipe can be adapted using other canned fruits or even fresh fruits, such as strawberries, peaches, or plums.

Nutritional benefits

Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, having beneficial effects on heart health and the immune system. Additionally, this cake, although a dessert, can be part of a balanced diet, especially if consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of fruit?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile, and you can experiment with different types of fruit as long as you maintain the proportions.

- How can I make the cake healthier?
Replace some of the sugar with natural sweeteners or use whole wheat flour instead of white flour to add nutrients.

- Is this cake suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using egg substitutes (e.g., banana puree or soy yogurt) and vegetable oil.

Pair this cake with a cup of flavored tea or fresh lemonade, and your culinary experience will be complete. The cherry compote cake is not just a recipe; it's a way to bring family and friends together at a table full of goodness. Try it and share it with your loved ones, and joy will be guaranteed!