Fabulous summer cake with fruits and meringue

Fabulous Summer Cake with Fruits and Meringue

Who doesn't love a refined, fluffy cake full of fresh flavors? The fabulous summer cake with fruits and meringue is a culinary masterpiece, perfect for warm days when we want to cool off with a delicious dessert. This cake is an irresistible combination of soft sponge, light meringue, and fresh fruits, and each bite will take you on a cloud of flavor and texture.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total: 1 hour 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:

*For the first composition:*
- 100 g butter (use quality butter for a richer taste)
- 100 g granulated sugar (the sugar will add sweetness and help create a fluffy texture)
- 2 egg yolks (without the whites, which will be used later)
- 1 packet baking powder (to help the cake rise)
- 100 g flour (white cake flour is ideal)
- 50 g ground almonds (these add a special flavor and interesting texture)
- a few strands of saffron (for a distinctive aroma and vibrant color)
- 3 tablespoons hot water (to infuse the saffron)
- grated zest of one lemon (adds freshness and a citrus note)

*For the meringue:*
- 4 large egg whites (make sure there are no traces of yolk for a perfect meringue)
- 225 g granulated sugar (the sugar will transform into fine crystals, giving the meringue an airy texture)
- 30 g ground almonds (to add extra flavor)
- 200 ml heavy cream (choose one with a high fat percentage for stable whipped cream)
- powdered sugar (for decoration)
- 1 banana (for a contrast of textures)
- 3 apricots (aromatic and juicy)
- strawberries (for a vibrant look and a sweet-tart taste)

Recipe story:
This cake is inspired by culinary traditions that celebrate summer and the abundance of seasonal fruits. Meringue, an essential element in desserts, has been perfected over time, becoming a symbol of elegance in pastry. Combining meringue with a moist sponge and fresh fruits makes this dessert a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it’s a party, an anniversary, or simply a gathering with friends.

Preparation steps:

1. Preheating the oven and preparing the pan:
Start by preheating the oven to 170°C (325°F). Line a 26 cm round springform pan with parchment paper and grease it well with butter. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking.

2. Preparing the sponge composition:
In a bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and ground almonds. In a separate container, infuse the saffron strands in 3 tablespoons of hot water. This step will intensify the saffron flavor.

3. Making the buttercream:
In another bowl, cream the butter with the sugar until fluffy. Add the egg yolks and lemon zest, mixing well. Then, add the flour mixture, baking powder, and almonds. Mix everything with a wooden spoon. Finally, incorporate the saffron water.

4. Baking the sponge:
Pour the composition into the prepared pan and level it with a spoon. Bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cake cool completely in the pan.

5. Preparing the meringue:
Meanwhile, beat the egg whites until they turn into a dense, glossy foam. Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing well after each addition. Continue to beat until you achieve a shiny, firm meringue. Gently fold in the ground almonds.

6. Assembling the cake:
Once the sponge has cooled, place it on a serving platter. Cover it with freshly whipped cream, spreading it evenly. Decorate with the sliced fruits: banana, apricots, and strawberries.

7. Serving:
Dust powdered sugar on top before serving for an elegant look. This fabulous cake is served chilled, making it perfect for a warm summer day.

Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- Use cream with a high fat content to achieve stable and delicious whipped cream.
- You can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or raspberries, to add a personal touch.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla extract to the meringue.

Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use other types of flour?* Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the textures will vary.
- *How can I tell if the meringue is ready?* The meringue should be shiny, firm, and not collapse when touched.
- *What can I do with leftover meringue?* You can make mini meringues that bake quickly and are perfect to serve separately as a snack.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake contains protein from the eggs, healthy fats from the butter and almonds, as well as vitamins from fresh fruits. It is a healthier choice than many other desserts, thanks to its high fruit content and the absence of processed ingredients.

Serving suggestion:
The fabulous fruit and meringue cake pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled fruit tea or a glass of prosecco, bringing a festive touch to any meal.

In conclusion, the fabulous summer cake with fruits and meringue is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will impress any guest. With each bite, you will enjoy a combination of textures and flavors that will make you return to this recipe again and again!