Colorful Cake

Colorful Cake: A Cheerful Delight for Special Moments

When it comes to desserts, nothing compares to a colorful and playful cake that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones. This colorful cake recipe is a true feast for the eyes and the taste buds, a perfect combination of a fluffy base, fresh fruit jelly, and a delicious cream. Whether you're making it for a birthday, a party, or simply to treat yourself, this cake is sure to become everyone's favorite.

Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Cooling Time: 2 hours (in the refrigerator)
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 8 egg whites (fresh, at room temperature)
- 400 g granulated sugar
- 4 packets of vanilla sugar (for an aromatic flavor)
- 50 g butter (at room temperature, cut into cubes)
- 500 g flour (high-quality, sifted)
- 1/2 packet baking powder (for added fluffiness)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

For the jelly:
- 400 g pears (ripe, for maximum sweetness)
- 100 g bananas (ripe)
- 2 packets of gelatin (for the perfect texture)
- Juice from 3 oranges (freshly squeezed, for a refreshing taste)
- 160 g sugar (adjustable based on the sweetness of the fruit)
- 1 vanilla essence (for an extra flavor boost)

For the cream:
- 1 packet of Dr. Oetker berry cream (or another preferred flavor)
- 250 ml cold milk (preferably whole, for creaminess)

Preparing the Colorful Cake

Step 1: The Base

1. Start by preparing the base. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt for 5 minutes until they become firm and glossy. This step is crucial for achieving an airy texture.

2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture is smooth and shiny.

3. In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder, then sprinkle the flour mixture over the egg whites, alternating with the milk. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients, being careful not to lose the air in the mixture.

4. Line a large baking tray (25x35 cm) with parchment paper and pour in the base mixture. Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

5. After baking, let the base cool completely in the tray.

Step 2: The Jelly

1. While the base is cooling, prepare the jelly. Peel the pears and bananas, then puree them separately until you achieve smooth purees.

2. Place the pear puree in a saucepan along with the orange juice, vanilla essence, and sugar. Let it boil for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the banana puree and allow the mixture to cool slightly. In a small bowl, hydrate the gelatin in 100 ml of cold water for 10 minutes, then gently heat until fully dissolved. Add the gelatin to the pear mixture and stir well.

4. Line the tray with plastic wrap, then pour the jelly over the cooled base. Allow it to cool at room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until the jelly sets.

Step 3: The Cream

1. In a tall bowl, add 250 ml of cold milk and the contents of the berry cream packet, along with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Using a mixer, beat on low speed for 2 minutes, then increase the speed and continue mixing for 3 minutes until you achieve a fluffy cream.

2. Pour the cream over the set jelly, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Decorate with colorful candies for a cheerful and appealing look.

Serving and Variations

The colorful cake can be served both as a dessert and as an afternoon snack. It pairs excellently with a cup of green tea or fresh lemonade. You can vary the recipe by using other seasonal fruits or flavored gelatins, adding a personal touch.

Tips and Useful Advice:
- Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for a better aerated foam.
- Don’t forget to sift the flour; this will prevent lumps and help achieve a fine texture.
- Experiment with different flavors in the cream on top, such as chocolate or coffee, to create a unique cake.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This colorful cake is a sweet option but should be consumed in moderation. Each serving contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. The fruits in the jelly provide a boost of vitamins and fiber, while the cream adds a touch of calcium and protein.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! Fruits like kiwi, strawberries, or peaches can add an interesting twist.
- What can I do with leftover egg whites? You can make meringues or a delicious foam.
- Can it be frozen? We recommend not freezing the cake, as the jelly's texture may suffer.

Personal Note

This colorful cake reminds me of family moments spent together, where everyone contributed to making the dessert. Remember, cooking is an art, and each recipe tells a story. Let’s enjoy every step of cooking and bring a little color into our lives! Enjoy!