Fluffy cake

Fluffy Fruit Cake – A simple, quick, and wonderful delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Fluffy fruit cake is an iconic recipe in many kitchens, bringing together the airy texture of the batter with the sweetness of fresh fruits. This simple and accessible recipe is perfect for enjoying with coffee, as a dessert after a meal, or even as a snack between meals.

An intriguing aspect of this cake is that, over time, it has evolved into various forms, with each culture adding its personal touch. Regardless of the chosen variant, the key to success lies in the fresh ingredients and the correct preparation technique.

Let’s begin our culinary adventure!

Necessary ingredients

- 2 large eggs (preferably organic, for a richer taste)
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of oil (sunflower or olive oil, for a more intense flavor)
- 1 cup of milk (or soda, or mineral water for an extra fizz)
- 2 cups of flour (white or whole grain, depending on preferences)
- 1 packet (about 10g) of baking powder
- Grated zest of one lemon (for a fresh taste)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- A pinch of salt
- Rum essence (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- Pitted fruits (apricots, peaches, cherries, or blueberries, depending on the season and preferences)
- Powdered sugar for decoration (optional)

Step by step – Your guide to a perfect cake

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as this will help achieve a fluffier texture. If using frozen fruits, remember to let them thaw and drain well before use.

2. Mixing eggs and sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the two eggs with the sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes). This step is essential for incorporating air into the batter, giving it a light texture.

3. Adding the oil:
Gradually add the oil, mixing constantly. This will help emulsify the mixture, giving the cake a smooth and moist consistency.

4. Including milk and flavors:
Incorporate the milk (or soda/mineral water) and mix well. Then, add the lemon zest, vanilla sugar, rum essence, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

5. Mixing the dry ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. This will help the cake rise evenly. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet composition, mixing gently with a spatula or mixer until there are no lumps. Be careful not to overmix, to avoid a dense cake.

6. Preparing the baking pan:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). Grease a baking pan (preferably rectangular) with oil or butter and dust it with flour. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.

7. Adding the fruits:
Wash and dry the fruits well. If using fresh fruits, cut them into cubes or slices. Dust them with a thin layer of flour; this trick helps them not sink to the bottom of the cake during baking. Pour the batter into the pan and evenly distribute the fruits on top.

8. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 30-35 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 20 minutes to allow the cake to rise evenly.

9. Cooling and serving:
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack. After it has completely cooled, you can dust powdered sugar on top for an elegant look.

Serving suggestions and variations

This fluffy cake is usually served plain, but you can pair it with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for a decadent dessert. You can also experiment with various types of fruits, such as raspberries or mango, to achieve different flavors. A delicious variation would be to add some chopped nuts or almonds for an extra crunch.

Nutritional information

This cake is an excellent choice, considering that fruits provide important nutritional benefits, such as vitamins and antioxidants. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the type of fruits used and the amount of sugar added. It is a relatively light dessert but offers a sweet satisfaction, ideal for indulging your taste buds without feeling too guilty.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but keep in mind that the texture may vary.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar or replace white sugar with brown sugar or honey.

3. Can this cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to do so in portions. Make sure to wrap it well to avoid ice crystal formation.

Conclusion

This fluffy fruit cake is definitely a recipe you must try. With every bite, you will discover the perfect combo of airy batter and juicy fruits, bringing a touch of joy to every moment. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make delicacy full of flavors! Enjoy!