Crispy cake with vanilla cream and cherries

Crispy Cake with Vanilla Cream and Sour Cherries

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Discover the perfect combination of crunchy meringue, fluffy vanilla cream, and juicy sour cherries with this crispy cake. This refined dessert not only looks spectacular but also offers an unforgettable sweet-tart flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to gatherings with friends. Let’s begin this culinary adventure!

Recipe History

Meringue has deep roots in culinary history, often associated with sophisticated desserts. Over time, it has evolved into various forms, being used in both simple desserts and elaborate cakes. The rich flavor of vanilla cream complements the meringue perfectly, while the sour cherries add a touch of freshness, transforming this cake into a true delicacy.

Ingredients

For the meringue layers:
- 4 egg whites (approximately 120 g)
- 450 g powdered sugar
- Grated seeds from 2 vanilla pods

For the cream:
- 4 packets of vanilla pudding (approximately 200 g)
- 1.2 liters of milk
- 50 g sugar

For decoration:
- Well-drained canned sour cherries (approximately 300 g)
- Coarsely chopped salted nuts (approximately 100 g)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Vanilla Cream
Start by preparing the cream, as it will need time to cool. In a medium saucepan, add the 4 packets of vanilla pudding, 1.2 liters of milk, and 50 g of sugar. Mix well to avoid lumps. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture thickens and reaches the desired consistency. Once the pudding is ready, let it cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a crust from forming and refrigerate.

2. Preparing the Meringue Layers
Preheat the oven to 130 °C. It’s essential to use fresh egg whites, as they will whip better. In a clean bowl, add the 4 egg whites and a pinch of salt. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a shiny, firm meringue. This is the moment to add the vanilla seeds, gently folding them in.

3. Baking the Layers
Line two baking trays with parchment paper. Using a spoon, divide the meringue into 4 equal portions. From each portion, form a circle with a diameter of about 20-25 cm. These circles will be the layers of the cake. Reduce the oven temperature to 120 °C and bake the layers for 1 hour. Once the time is up, turn off the oven and let the layers cool inside, which will help maintain their crispness.

4. Assembling the Cake
Once the layers have completely cooled, it’s time to assemble the cake. Place one meringue layer on a serving platter. Add a generous layer of vanilla cream, followed by a layer of drained sour cherries. Continue this process until all layers are used, finishing with a meringue layer on top. Add a layer of cherries and chopped nuts on top for a crunchy finish.

Practical Tips
- Ingredient Selection: Use quality ingredients, especially fresh eggs and natural vanilla. These will make a difference in the cake’s final flavor.
- Whipping Egg Whites: Ensure the bowl used for whipping the egg whites is completely clean, free from any grease. Any trace of yolk can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.
- Oven Temperature: Be mindful of the oven temperature, as baking at too high a temperature can lead to cracks in the meringue.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of fruit?
Yes, you can replace the sour cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries.

- How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use a sugar-free pudding.

Possible Variations
This cake can be customized according to your preferences. You can add a layer of chocolate cream between the meringue layers for a more decadent flavor. Additionally, you can use roasted nuts instead of peanuts for a different texture.

Ideal Pairings
This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic coffee or a fruit tea, making it ideal for a relaxing afternoon. You can serve the cake alongside vanilla ice cream or chocolate sauce for a perfect contrast.

Nutritional Benefits
This cake, besides being delicious, also offers some nutritional benefits. Sour cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, while nuts add a healthy dose of good fats and protein. However, be mindful of portions, considering the sugar content.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! The crispy cake with vanilla cream and sour cherries will surely be the star of your table. Enjoy every slice and cherish the moments spent with loved ones!