Fruit cake

Fruit Cake - a Simple and Versatile Delight

This fruit cake is perfect for those moments when you want to treat your family or friends to a delicious yet quick dessert. With a blend of flavors and textures, the cake becomes an ideal choice for any occasion, from an afternoon snack to an elegant dessert after dinner. Let’s discover together how to prepare this fluffy cake, topped with a crunchy layer and fresh fruits.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10

Necessary Ingredients:

- 6 eggs
- 15 tablespoons of milk
- 150 g sugar
- 150 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 300 g flour
- Fresh fruits (peaches, pears, grapes, or any other fruits you prefer)

Before we start, let’s take a quick look at the essential ingredients. Eggs are crucial for providing structure to the cake, and sugar not only sweetens but also helps achieve a fluffy texture. The oil contributes to the cake's moisture, while the milk adds creaminess. The flour and baking powder are responsible for the volume and lightness of the cake.

Fresh fruits not only add a delicious flavor but also provide a pleasant contrast of textures. You can experiment with different fruit combinations based on your preferences or the season.

Step 1: Preparing the Batter

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is an important step that ensures even baking of the cake.

2. Separate the egg whites from the yolks. It’s essential to ensure that no traces of yolk remain in the whites, so you can whip them properly.

3. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar and milk using a mixer. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth, light-colored foam.

4. Gradually add the oil in a thin stream, like making mayonnaise. This technique will help emulsify the ingredients, giving the cake a rich and creamy texture.

5. In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This will help avoid lumps in the batter. Start incorporating the flour into the egg mixture, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon until the ingredients are fully combined.

Step 2: Preparing the Pan and Adding the Fruits

6. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. It’s recommended to grease the paper with a little oil and sprinkle breadcrumbs to prevent the cake from sticking.

7. Use a spoon to pour the batter into the tray, spreading it evenly. Carefully level the surface.

8. Sprinkle a bit of breadcrumbs on top, which will help create a crispy crust.

9. Arrange slices of peach, pear, and grape on top of the batter. Feel free to play around with their arrangement, whether you prefer an artistic design or a more natural distribution. Use seasonal fruits for a fresh and vibrant taste.

Step 3: Baking

10. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 30-40 minutes. It’s important to check the cake after 20 minutes. If the top becomes too brown, you can cover it with aluminum foil.

11. When the cake is nearly baked, beat the egg whites with 200 g of sugar until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. This step will add a delicious topping and an airy texture.

12. In the last 10 minutes of baking, remove the cake from the oven and spread the meringue evenly on top. Return the tray to the oven and continue baking until you achieve a golden and crispy crust.

Step 4: Cooling and Serving

13. Once baked, let the cake cool in the tray. It’s recommended to cut it with a knife dipped in hot water to get nice and even slices.

14. Serve the fruit cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. The contrasts in temperature and texture will turn each slice into a true explosion of flavors.

Helpful Tips:

- You can replace milk with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Depending on the fruits used, you can also add spices like cinnamon or vanilla for extra flavor.
- An interesting variation is to use dried fruits or nuts to add a crunchy texture and intense flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

This fruit cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Fresh fruits provide vitamins and antioxidants, while eggs and milk are excellent sources of protein. It’s a healthier choice compared to many other desserts that are high in fats and processed sugars.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes, but make sure to let them thaw and drain before adding them to the cake to avoid excess water.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. You can gently reheat it before serving to restore its fluffy texture.

3. Can I add cocoa to the batter?
Sure! You can substitute part of the flour with cocoa powder to create a chocolate cake.

Ideal Pairings:

The fruit cake pairs perfectly with a cup of fragrant tea or a glass of freshly squeezed juice. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce can perfectly complement the dessert.

In conclusion, this fruit cake is an excellent choice for a quick and tasty dessert. With a little effort, you can achieve an impressive result that will delight anyone who tastes it. Enjoy your cooking!