Fruit Cake

Fruit cake is one of the most refreshing and easy-to-make delicacies, perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Both adults and children are passionate fans of sweets, but not all desserts are as healthy as they seem. Therefore, it is essential to provide healthier options for the little ones, and this cake is an excellent choice. Whether it's a birthday, a family gathering, or simply a special moment, this fruit cake will quickly become your favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 12 hours
Total time: 12 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 10-12

Ingredients:

- 3 eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1 cup (200 g) sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 liter of whipped cream
- 150-200 ml natural yogurt
- 2 packets of gelatin (about 20 g)
- 1 large package of ladyfingers
- 1 can of pineapple (about 300 g)
- 1 can of peaches (about 300 g, I used only half a can)
- For decoration:
- grapes
- kiwi
- orange
- apple
- 1 packet of clear gelatin

A Brief History of Fruit Cake

Fruit cake has deep roots in culinary traditions around the world, being a dessert that harmoniously combines the sweet taste of fruits with rich cream. Over time, various cultures have adopted their unique version of this cake, using seasonal fruits and locally available ingredients. This cake is not only a delicacy but also a way to celebrate nature and its abundance.

Making the Fruit Cake

Step 1: Preparing the Base Cream

1. In a small saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla sugar. Mix the ingredients well until homogeneous.
2. Place the saucepan over low heat and let the mixture simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly (about 10-15 minutes). It is very important to be careful not to let it boil too hard to avoid lumps.
3. Once the cream has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Preparing the Whipped Cream and Gelatin

1. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This will give your cake an airy texture.
2. In another bowl, whip the cream until it becomes firm. Make sure to use well-chilled cream for the best results.
3. In a cup, add the juice from the pineapple or peaches and dissolve the gelatin in it, stirring well. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Assembling the Cake

1. Once the milk cream has cooled completely, gently fold in half of the whipped cream, yogurt, beaten egg whites, and the (slightly warmed) gelatin into the milk cream. Mix gently to avoid losing air in the mixture.
2. Add the chopped fruits (pineapple and peaches), stirring gently until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Shaping the Cake

1. Use an airtight container or a deep bowl to shape the cake. You can also use a baking tray but make sure it is covered with plastic wrap for easier removal of the cake.
2. Dip the ladyfingers in the syrup left by the fruits and place a first layer at the bottom of the mold.
3. Add a layer of the fruit cream, followed by another layer of dipped ladyfingers, and continue in the same way until you have formed 3 layers of ladyfingers and 3 layers of cream.
4. Cover the mold with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This chilling time is essential to allow the cake to set and the flavors to combine.

Step 5: Decorating the Cake

1. The next day, take the cake out of the refrigerator. Use a knife to gently detach the cake from the edges of the mold, then invert it onto a serving platter.
2. Decorate with the remaining whipped cream, fresh fruits, and clear gelatin, which you can melt and pour over the fruits for a glossy and appetizing look.

Serving Suggestions

The fruit cake is perfect to be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can also pair this dessert with a cold lemonade or natural juice to create a refreshing combination on hot summer days.

Tips and Variations

- You can experiment with various fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, or mangoes, to give your cake a personalized touch.
- For a healthier version, you can replace the sugar with honey or a natural sweetener.
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream.

Nutritional Information

This fruit cake is a healthier option, rich in vitamins due to the fresh fruits and yogurt. One serving contains approximately 220-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a source of protein, calcium, and antioxidants, thanks to the fruits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of fruits?
Absolutely! You can replace the fruits in the recipe with your favorites, such as berries or fresh peaches.

2. How can I make the cake without gelatin?
You can use agar-agar for a vegan version or omit the gelatin completely, but the cake will not be as firm.

3. How long can the cake be stored?
The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best consumed fresh, one day after preparation.

The fruit cake is a wonderful choice for any occasion, being not only delicious but also healthy. Whether you prepare it for family or friends, it is a dessert that will surely bring joy and good cheer. Enjoy every slice and cherish the moments spent together!