Nectarine Cake

Nectarine cake - A Fruity Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Welcome to the world of simple but full of personality desserts! Today I invite you to discover a delicious and exquisite recipe: nectarine cake. This cake is perfect for summer days when nectarines are at their peak of flavor. It is an easy recipe that combines the fluffy texture of the dough with the natural sweetness of the fruit.

A bit of history
Nectarine cake has deep roots in the culinary tradition, where the use of seasonal fruits has always been appreciated. Nectarines, similar to peaches but with a smooth peel, add a touch of freshness and unmistakable flavor. This cake recipe proves to be not only a great way to make the most of the fruit, but also an opportunity to create unforgettable moments with loved ones.

Ingredients
- 8 ripe but firm nectarines
- 9 eggs
- 9 tablespoons sugar (you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor)
- 9 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil (olive oil adds a Mediterranean touch)
- 9 tablespoons flour (for a lighter dough, try whole wheat flour)
- 3 sachets vanilla sugar (or natural vanilla extract)
- Margarine for greasing the pan
- Sugar for lining the pan

Prepare the tray
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Grease a baking tray with margarine, making sure it is evenly coated, including the sides. Sprinkle sugar on the bottom of the pan, which will add a touch of caramelization to the cake.

Preparing the nectarines
Wash the nectarines and cut them in halves, removing the pits. Place the nectarine halves, center-side down, in the prepared pan. This arrangement will not only give the cake an aesthetically pleasing appearance, but will also allow the natural juices of the fruit to seep into the batter.

Preparing the dough
Separating the eggs is a crucial step. Beat the egg whites in a large bowl until frothy, then gradually add the 9 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla sugar. Continue beating until you have a firm, glossy foam. This is the base for a fluffy, airy cake.

In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks and add them one at a time over the egg whites, continuing to mix gently. The next step is to add the oil, one tablespoon at a time, followed by the flour, also one tablespoon at a time. Be sure to mix gently to keep the air out of the egg whites.

Baking the cake
Pour the batter mixture over the nectarines in the pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake on high for 10 minutes. Then reduce the temperature to 160°C (medium heat) and bake for a further 20-25 minutes. The cake is done when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Cooling and serving
Once the cake has been baked, allow it to cool slightly in the tray. Then carefully invert it onto a platter. It is important to do this step while the cake is still warm to prevent sticking. Cut the cake into pieces and serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions
This nectarine cake goes great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce. For a tasty contrast, add a few fresh mint leaves as garnish. Also, a cup of fruit tea or a semi-dry white wine perfectly complements the culinary experience.

Possible Variations
If you want to explore other flavors, try adding some chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter for added texture. A delicious variation is to replace the nectarines with peaches or plums, each bringing a unique touch to the cake.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen nectarines?
Not recommended as the texture will change. Use fresh nectarines for best results.

2. How can I keep the cake for longer?
The cake keeps well at room temperature, covered with cling film. You can eat it within 2-3 days.

3. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
You can try replacing the eggs with a water and flaxseed mix or a vegan egg substitute, but the end result will vary.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
One serving of nectarine cake contains about 250 calories. Nectarines are rich in vitamins A and C, providing antioxidants that contribute to skin and immune health.

Practical tips
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start cooking.
- Don't omit the sugar from the bottom of the pan; it adds a delicious caramelized taste to the cake.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to get the best results in beating the egg whites.

This nectarine cake recipe is not only a simple treat, but also a great way to bring the flavors of summer into your kitchen. I hope you enjoy every moment spent baking this cake and creating delicious memories with your loved ones!