Cherry sponge cake – the perfect dessert for sweet memories
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10
Discover the magic of cherry sponge cake, a simple yet absolutely delicious dessert that combines fluffy texture with the tartness of fresh fruits. This recipe has its roots in culinary tradition, being a popular choice for family meals and special occasions. With every bite, you'll feel how the flavors blend perfectly, bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones.
Ingredients needed
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 7 g baking powder (about half a packet)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 20 fresh (or frozen) pitted cherries
Step-by-step preparation
1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by taking the eggs out of the fridge and letting them reach room temperature. This step is essential, as room temperature eggs whip better, resulting in a fluffier batter. Wash the cherries under cold running water, pit them, and place them in a sieve to drain well.
2. Whipping the egg whites
In a large bowl, add the egg whites and begin to beat them at medium speed, gradually adding the sugar. Continue beating until you achieve a stiff, glossy foam. A helpful trick is to check if the bowl can be turned upside down without the foam spilling – this is a sign that you've achieved the right consistency.
3. Mixing the egg yolks
In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with a whisk along with the oil and vanilla extract. This mixture will add a subtle flavor and rich texture to your sponge cake.
4. Combining the ingredients
To the whipped egg whites, add the egg yolk mixture, a pinch of salt, and the baking powder. Gently fold in using a spatula, employing up-and-down motions to avoid deflating the foam. Start adding the flour, sprinkling it in gradually, and continue to mix delicately until you achieve a homogeneous and fluffy batter.
5. Preparing the baking pan
Grease a loaf pan (or a baking dish) with butter and line it with parchment paper. This step will ensure that the sponge cake releases easily after baking.
6. Adding the cherries
Dust the cherries with a little flour (this will prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking) and evenly distribute them over the batter in the pan.
7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the sponge cake in the oven. Let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the surface turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cooling
When done, gently open the oven door and let the sponge cake cool in the oven for 10-15 minutes to prevent sudden cracking. Then, remove it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving
The cherry sponge cake is served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, but can also be accompanied by fruit sauces, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. A personal touch that I love is serving it with warm chocolate sauce, which adds a decadent flavor.
Variations and suggestions
Although cherries are a classic ingredient, you can experiment with other fruits like cherries, peaches, or blueberries. Each variation will bring a different note to your dessert. Additionally, you can add ground nuts or coconut flakes to the batter for extra texture.
Calories and nutritional benefits
Each serving of cherry sponge cake contains approximately 180-200 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. It is a good source of protein due to the eggs, and cherries add essential antioxidants and vitamins. This dessert can be a healthier choice compared to other cakes, especially if you choose to reduce sugar or use natural sweeteners.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with various seasonal fruits. Each type of fruit will offer a unique flavor.
- How can I store the sponge cake?
The sponge cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. It can be frozen for later consumption.
- How can I check if it's done?
Insert a toothpick in the center of the sponge cake; if it comes out clean, the dessert is done.
Conclusion
The cherry sponge cake is not just a dessert but an opportunity to create memories with loved ones. Cooking is a form of art, and with each recipe, you have the chance to leave your personal mark. So, put on your chef's attire and let yourself be carried away by the flavors and colors of this wonderful dessert!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10
Discover the magic of cherry sponge cake, a simple yet absolutely delicious dessert that combines fluffy texture with the tartness of fresh fruits. This recipe has its roots in culinary tradition, being a popular choice for family meals and special occasions. With every bite, you'll feel how the flavors blend perfectly, bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones.
Ingredients needed
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 7 g baking powder (about half a packet)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 20 fresh (or frozen) pitted cherries
Step-by-step preparation
1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by taking the eggs out of the fridge and letting them reach room temperature. This step is essential, as room temperature eggs whip better, resulting in a fluffier batter. Wash the cherries under cold running water, pit them, and place them in a sieve to drain well.
2. Whipping the egg whites
In a large bowl, add the egg whites and begin to beat them at medium speed, gradually adding the sugar. Continue beating until you achieve a stiff, glossy foam. A helpful trick is to check if the bowl can be turned upside down without the foam spilling – this is a sign that you've achieved the right consistency.
3. Mixing the egg yolks
In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with a whisk along with the oil and vanilla extract. This mixture will add a subtle flavor and rich texture to your sponge cake.
4. Combining the ingredients
To the whipped egg whites, add the egg yolk mixture, a pinch of salt, and the baking powder. Gently fold in using a spatula, employing up-and-down motions to avoid deflating the foam. Start adding the flour, sprinkling it in gradually, and continue to mix delicately until you achieve a homogeneous and fluffy batter.
5. Preparing the baking pan
Grease a loaf pan (or a baking dish) with butter and line it with parchment paper. This step will ensure that the sponge cake releases easily after baking.
6. Adding the cherries
Dust the cherries with a little flour (this will prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking) and evenly distribute them over the batter in the pan.
7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the sponge cake in the oven. Let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the surface turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cooling
When done, gently open the oven door and let the sponge cake cool in the oven for 10-15 minutes to prevent sudden cracking. Then, remove it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving
The cherry sponge cake is served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, but can also be accompanied by fruit sauces, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. A personal touch that I love is serving it with warm chocolate sauce, which adds a decadent flavor.
Variations and suggestions
Although cherries are a classic ingredient, you can experiment with other fruits like cherries, peaches, or blueberries. Each variation will bring a different note to your dessert. Additionally, you can add ground nuts or coconut flakes to the batter for extra texture.
Calories and nutritional benefits
Each serving of cherry sponge cake contains approximately 180-200 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. It is a good source of protein due to the eggs, and cherries add essential antioxidants and vitamins. This dessert can be a healthier choice compared to other cakes, especially if you choose to reduce sugar or use natural sweeteners.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with various seasonal fruits. Each type of fruit will offer a unique flavor.
- How can I store the sponge cake?
The sponge cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. It can be frozen for later consumption.
- How can I check if it's done?
Insert a toothpick in the center of the sponge cake; if it comes out clean, the dessert is done.
Conclusion
The cherry sponge cake is not just a dessert but an opportunity to create memories with loved ones. Cooking is a form of art, and with each recipe, you have the chance to leave your personal mark. So, put on your chef's attire and let yourself be carried away by the flavors and colors of this wonderful dessert!