Marble cake with cherries and meringue

Marbled Cherry Cake with Meringue: A Delicacy Made with Love

Who doesn't love a cake that combines textures and flavors in a symphony of tastes? The marbled cherry cake with meringue is a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a family celebration or a simple Sunday when you want to treat yourself. This recipe combines the fluffy, aromatic batter with juicy cherries and light meringue, creating a dessert that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Let’s embark on the adventure of making this marbled cake!

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12

Ingredients:
For the Batter:
- 600 g fresh cherries (or from a jar, well drained)
- 5 large eggs
- 200 g flour
- 175 g sugar
- 30 g cocoa
- 30 ml oil (you can use sunflower or canola oil)
- A pinch of salt
- Zest of one lemon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the Meringue:
- 4 egg whites (about 120 g)
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Lemon juice (a few drops)

Necessary Utensils:
- Mixing bowl
- Silicone spatula
- Round baking pan (preferably 24 cm in diameter)
- Baking paper
- Mixer (or whisk, for exercise)
- Decorating syringe (or a pastry bag)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs, for a fluffier batter. Wash the cherries, remove the pits, and let them drain in a sieve.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
1. Separate the Eggs: Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks. Place the egg whites in a clean bowl and the yolks in another.
2. Whisk the Yolks: Add sugar to the yolks and beat with a mixer until they become creamy. Add lemon zest, vanilla extract, and oil, mixing well.
3. Add the Flour: Gently fold in the flour mixed with baking powder into the yolk mixture, using a spatula to avoid lumps.

Step 3: Whisk the Egg Whites
1. Prepare the Egg Whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. It's important to ensure that the bowl and utensils are completely clean; otherwise, the egg whites won't whip properly.
2. Incorporate the Sugar: Gradually add the sugar, two tablespoons at a time, continuing to beat until the meringue becomes glossy and forms stiff peaks.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
1. Share the Batter: Take half of the batter mixture (yolk) and transfer it to another bowl. Add cocoa and mix well.
2. Incorporate the Egg Whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture in two batches, using the spatula to lift from the bottom to maintain airiness.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake
1. Prepare the Pan: Line the round pan with baking paper. Pour the white batter (without cocoa) into the pan, then add the cocoa batter on top.
2. Marble the Mixture: Use the handle of a spoon to gently swirl the two mixtures together, creating a marbled effect.
3. Add the Cherries: Place the drained cherries over the batter in the pan.

Step 6: Bake the Batter
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake for about 15 minutes, until it is firm around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.

Step 7: Prepare the Meringue
1. Whisk the Egg Whites for Meringue: While the batter is baking, beat the egg whites for the meringue until frothy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until a firm meringue forms. Incorporate a few drops of lemon juice to stabilize the meringue.

Step 8: Finish the Cake
1. Add the Meringue: Remove the cake from the oven and spread the meringue on top using a decorating syringe or pastry bag.
2. Bake the Meringue: Return the cake to the oven for another 15 minutes, until the meringue is golden and crispy.

Step 9: Serve
Once the cake has cooled, you can cut it into portions. For an extra flavor boost, you can add a cherry sauce on top before serving. This will enhance the cherry flavor and make the cake look spectacular.

Helpful Tip:
If you want to try a version with a different type of fruit, you can replace the cherries with cherries, peaches, or even blueberries. Each variation will add a distinct note to your cake!

Nutritional Benefits:
This cake is not just a treat but also a good source of vitamins due to the cherries, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C. Additionally, the eggs and flour provide necessary proteins.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen fruit? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
2. How can I store the cake? It keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days.
3. What drink pairs best with this cake? A cup of coffee or a fruit tea will perfectly complement the flavors of the cake.

Conclusion:
The marbled cherry cake with meringue is a dessert that impresses with its appearance and taste. Perfect for any occasion, it is a true indulgence that deserves to be savored. Dare to try it and surprise your family and friends with this delicious recipe!