Fruit cake

Fruit Cake: a decadent and refined delicacy, perfect for any special occasion or simply to treat family and friends. This recipe combines a fluffy sponge, a smooth cream, and juicy fruits, creating a perfect balance between sweet and tart. Here’s how to prepare this delicious cake step by step, with all the tips and tricks needed for an exceptional result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 6 duck eggs (or chicken eggs, but duck eggs give a richer taste)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 essence of rum (adds a subtle and pleasant note)
- 6 tablespoons of wheat flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- A pinch of salt (helps stabilize the egg whites)
- 100 g of butter (melted in a bain-marie)
- 1 tablespoon of instant coffee (optional, adds depth of flavor)

For the cream:
- 800 g of sour cream (choose a high-fat sour cream for a creamy texture)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 essence of orange (enhances the fruit flavor)
- 250 g of mascarpone (for a luxurious and rich cream)
- 500 g of sour cherries (canned in sugar for an intense flavor)

For soaking:
- 100 ml of cherry syrup (you can use the syrup from the canned cherries)

For decoration:
- Fresh cherries
- Fresh strawberries

Preparing the sponge

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Use a clean bowl for the egg whites, as any trace of fat can prevent the foam from forming.

2. Beating the egg whites: Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and mix at high speed until you obtain a dense and firm foam. It is important not to continue mixing once you have achieved the desired consistency to avoid deflating.

3. Beating the yolks: In another bowl, beat the yolks with the sugar until the mixture becomes light in color and creamy. This is an essential step for achieving a fluffy sponge.

4. Combining the mixtures: Gently fold the two mixtures (yolks and egg whites) together using a spatula, mixing with up-and-down motions to preserve the airiness.

5. Adding dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and instant coffee. Sift them to avoid lumps, then gradually add them to the egg mixture, mixing gently.

6. Melted butter: Incorporate the melted butter and the essence of rum, continuing to mix gently.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a removable cake pan with parchment paper and pour the mixture evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool to room temperature.

Preparing the cream

1. Beating the sour cream: Place the sour cream in a food processor and add the sugar. Mix until you obtain a thick whipped cream.

2. Adding the mascarpone: Incorporate the mascarpone and the essence of orange, continuing to mix for a few minutes until well combined.

Assembling the cake

1. Cutting the sponge: Once the sponge has cooled, cut it into three equal layers.

2. Soaking: Use the cherry syrup to soak each layer. This will add moisture and flavor.

3. Filling: On the first layer of sponge, spread some of the cream and add the pitted cherries. Continue with the second layer of sponge, repeating the filling process.

4. Finishing the cake: Place the last layer of sponge on top, cover with the remaining cream, and smooth it out nicely.

5. Decorating: Decorate with fresh cherries and strawberries. These not only add an attractive appearance but also a burst of fresh flavors.

Serving and suggestions

Serve the cake chilled, allowing it to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before cutting, to allow the flavors to meld and stabilize. It is a perfect dessert to be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or aromatic tea.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can replace the cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as strawberries or peaches. Also, for a more exotic note, you can add a splash of orange liqueur to the mascarpone cream.

Nutritional benefits

This fruit cake contains nutrient-rich ingredients, such as proteins from the eggs and sour cream, healthy fats from the butter, and vitamins from the fruits. However, it is important to consume in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of flour? You can experiment with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? Adjust the amount of sugar in the cream and sponge.
- Is it possible to freeze the cake? Yes, but it is recommended to freeze it without decoration, then decorate it after thawing.

Now you are ready to prepare a delicious fruit cake that will impress everyone! Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and explore new combinations of fruits and flavors. Enjoy!