Fruit cake

Fruit Cake - A Delightful Treat Easy to Prepare

Welcome to the wonderful world of desserts! Today, I propose we prepare together a fruit cake, a recipe that combines the freshness of fruits with the delicacy of yogurt and whipped cream. This cake is perfect for special occasions as well as for enjoying a sweet moment with loved ones. The total preparation time is about 30 minutes, and then you will need to wait a few hours for it to chill in the refrigerator. Here’s how to prepare it step by step!

Ingredients needed (for 8 servings)

- 1 liter of liquid cream
- 4 packets of gelatin (approximately 15 g each)
- 10 ladyfingers
- 1 large yogurt (preferably with fruit)
- Seasonal fruits (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, peaches)
- A small amount of water or fruit juice (approximately 15 tablespoons)
- Sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of the fruits)

Preparation time

- Active time: 30 minutes
- Refrigeration time: at least 5 hours (ideally overnight)
- Total time: 5 hours and 30 minutes

Preparation steps

Step 1: Preparing the whipped cream
Start by whipping the liquid cream. Use an electric mixer to achieve well-stiffened cream. This will take a few minutes. Make sure the cream is cold before whipping it for the best results. Set aside some of the whipped cream (about 100 ml) to use for decorating the cake.

Step 2: Preparing the gelatin
In a small bowl, add the 4 packets of gelatin and mix them with 15 tablespoons of water or fruit juice. Let the mixture sit for 2 minutes until the gelatin absorbs the liquid. Then, place the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously. The gelatin should completely dissolve, but it should not be allowed to boil. The maximum temperature that your finger can tolerate is ideal to stop the cooking process.

Step 3: Preparing the composition
Once the gelatin has melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine the whipped cream, yogurt, and some of the chopped fruits. Add the melted gelatin to the mixture and mix well to obtain a uniform composition.

Step 4: Assembling the cake
Prepare a cake pan or dish that you have lined with cling film. Add the remaining fruits to the bottom of the pan, arranging them nicely. Then, pour the cake mixture over the fruits, ensuring it is evenly distributed. After that, soak the ladyfingers in fruit juice or water and place them on top of the mixture. These will act as a base layer for the cake.

Step 5: Cooling the cake
Cover the pan with a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 5 hours, but it is recommended to leave it overnight. This will allow the gelatin to set well and the cake to achieve a firm texture.

Step 6: Serving the cake
After the cake has set, remove it from the refrigerator. Place a plate on top of the pan and carefully flip the cake over. Remove the cling film. Use the whipped cream you reserved earlier to decorate the cake as desired. You can also add some fresh fruits for a more attractive appearance.

Useful tips

- Choosing fruits: Use fresh seasonal fruits for maximum flavor. Frozen fruits can be used, but they need to be thawed before use.
- Dairy-free option: If you want a vegan version, you can use coconut cream and plant-based yogurt.
- Sweetening: If you want a sweeter cake, add sugar to the cream or yogurt, depending on personal preferences.

Nutritional benefits

This fruit cake is not only delicious but also healthy! Fresh fruits are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, while yogurt provides beneficial probiotics for digestive health. The cream adds a touch of indulgence, but in moderation, this dessert can be included in a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use vegan gelatin? Yes, you can use agar-agar as an alternative to traditional gelatin.
- How can I store leftover cake? Keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain its freshness. It keeps well for up to 3 days.
- What drinks pair well with this cake? A refreshing lemonade, a cold fruit tea, or even a sweet white wine can perfectly complement this treat.

Delicious combinations

The fruit cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or melted chocolate sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cookies or a cake base to create a truly special dessert.

Personal note

To add a touch of originality to the cake, try adding a bit of vanilla or almond extract to the whipped cream and yogurt mixture. This will enhance the flavors and make the dessert even more appetizing. Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family to treat them to a healthy and delicious dessert!

Now that you have all the necessary information, put on your apron and let’s create this sweet wonder together. Bon appétit!