Fruit sponge cake

Fruit sponge cake - a delicacy that is easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion! This classic recipe combines the fluffy texture of sponge cake with the sweetness and flavors of fruits, offering a dessert that will surely impress everyone. Whether you choose to use fresh or frozen fruits, the result will be delicious and satisfying. Additionally, it is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

The History of Sponge Cake
Sponge cake is a traditional recipe that has gained popularity in kitchens around the world. This light, airy cake has its origins in old baking methods, often used as a base for many other desserts. The addition of fruits has been a welcome innovation, bringing with it an explosion of flavors and textures.

Necessary ingredients:
- 7 eggs
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 7 tablespoons of flour
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- Juice of one lemon
- 3 tablespoons of sunflower oil
- Grated zest of one orange and one lemon
- A pinch of salt
- A little flour for the fruits
- 500 g of fresh or frozen fruits

Preparing the Fruit Sponge Cake
Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by taking the eggs out of the fridge and letting them reach room temperature. This will help achieve a fluffier meringue for the egg whites. Separate the egg whites from the yolks using your palm. This is a simple and efficient method that will save you time and help avoid the risk of yolks getting into the egg whites.

Step 2: Preparing the yolk cream
In a large bowl, mix the yolks with the sugar, grated citrus zest, one packet of vanilla sugar, baking powder quenched with lemon juice, and the 3 tablespoons of oil. Use a mixer on high speed until you obtain a thick and homogeneous cream. Here, the oil will add moisture and contribute to the fluffy texture of the sponge cake.

Step 3: Beating the egg whites
In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt and lemon juice. This step is essential for achieving a firm and stable meringue. When the egg whites become foamy, continue beating until they form stiff peaks.

Step 4: Combining the mixtures
Start incorporating the yolk cream into the egg whites, adding gradually and folding gently with a spatula from top to bottom to avoid losing air in the mixture. This is a crucial moment; gentle mixing will ensure that your sponge cake will be fluffy and light.

Step 5: Adding the flour
Gradually add the flour, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to mix carefully. Make sure there are no lumps and the mixture becomes homogeneous.

Step 6: Preparing the fruits
To prevent the fruits from sinking to the bottom of the cake, sprinkle a little flour over them. This will create a protective layer. You can use any fruits you like: strawberries, peaches, blueberries, or even diced apples sprinkled with cinnamon for a more intense flavor.

Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to a low temperature. Pour the mixture into a baking pan lined with parchment paper, spreading it evenly. Place the fruits on top and sprinkle the other packet of vanilla sugar. Bake the sponge cake for about 25 minutes. Check if it’s done by doing the toothpick test - it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cooling and serving
After the sponge cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can serve this simple delicacy dusted with powdered sugar or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures.

Useful tips:
- If using frozen fruits, there is no need to thaw them before adding them to the mixture, but make sure to coat them well with flour.
- Add a little cocoa to the mixture to create a chocolate sponge cake, perfect for chocolate lovers.
- You can experiment with different flavors by adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the yolk mixture.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace sugar with a natural sweetener?
Yes, you can use natural sweeteners, but make sure to follow the recommended proportions on the packaging.

- How can I make the sponge cake moister?
Add a little more oil or replace a few tablespoons of flour with Greek yogurt for a moister texture.

- Is it possible to make the sponge cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Nutritional benefits:
This fruit sponge cake recipe is a good source of protein from the eggs, vitamins, and minerals from the fruits. It is also relatively low in calories, having about 180 calories per serving, making it an excellent choice for a light dessert.

In conclusion, the fruit sponge cake is a dessert that brings a touch of joy to every day. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or prepare it for a special occasion, this simple and delicious recipe will surely be a hit! Don't forget to play with the ingredients and put your personal touch on every dish!