Fruit cake with whipped cream and chocolate

Fruit cake with whipped cream and chocolate: a delight that will enchant your senses

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10

Who doesn’t love a fluffy cake, filled with juicy fruits and topped with whipped cream and chocolate? This cake, with its soft texture and refined taste, is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, an anniversary, or simply a weekend evening spent with family. It is also a simple, quick recipe, perfect for beginners as well as for those more experienced in cooking.

The history of this cake is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary tradition of fruit desserts. Prepared with simple yet quality ingredients, this dessert has been adapted and improved over the years to satisfy everyone’s tastes. In a world full of options, the fruit cake with whipped cream and chocolate remains a classic, always appreciated.

Here’s how you can prepare it at home, step by step:

Necessary ingredients:

For the cake:
- 5-6 eggs (depending on the size of the pan)
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- 5 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 5 tablespoons of oil
- 5 tablespoons of sparkling water
- 0.500 kg of strawberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

For decoration:
- 1 box of whipped cream (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 dark or milk chocolate (200 g)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as they whip better. If you are using frozen strawberries, let them thaw and drain well before use. This will prevent the cake from becoming too wet.

Step 2: Whipping the egg whites

In a large bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Beat them with an electric mixer at medium speed until frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the egg whites become firm and glossy. This is a crucial step to achieve a fluffy cake.

Step 3: Adding the egg yolks

In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with sparkling water, then gently fold them into the whipped egg whites. Use a spatula and mix gently to avoid deflating the air in the egg whites.

Step 4: Combining the dry ingredients

Sift the flour together with the vanilla sugar and add them to the egg mixture. Mix gently, with upward movements, until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Also add the oil, continuing to mix gently.

Step 5: Preparing the baking pan

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking pan (approximately 30x20 cm) by greasing it with oil and dusting it with flour to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 6: Adding the strawberries

Place some strawberries in the pan, distributed evenly. These will create a delicious base for the cake and add a fresh flavor.

Step 7: Baking the cake

Pour the cake mixture over the strawberries, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Add the remaining strawberries on top for an attractive look. Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake for 30-35 minutes or until it passes the toothpick test (the toothpick should come out clean).

Step 8: Cooling the cake

After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. This step is important to avoid excess moisture.

Step 9: Decorating the cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, whip the cream until it becomes firm. Cover the cake with a generous layer of whipped cream, using a spatula or a pastry knife to create an even appearance. Grate the chocolate over the cake, adding a touch of elegance and intense flavor.

Step 10: Serving

This fruit cake with whipped cream and chocolate is served cold, perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea. It is ideal for special occasions or simply to indulge yourself.

Useful tips:
- If you want a taller cake, you can use 6 eggs and add an extra tablespoon of each ingredient.
- You can experiment with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches to vary the cake’s flavor.
- Make sure the chocolate used is of high quality, as it will influence the final taste of the cake.

Nutritional information (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fats: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Proteins: 6 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can try whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier version.
2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar by 1-2 tablespoons and use darker chocolate to balance the sweetness.
3. What is the best way to store the cake?
Keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, to maintain its freshness.

This fruit cake with whipped cream and chocolate recipe is not only delicious but also a true visual feast. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent in the kitchen!