Nectarine Cake

Nectarine Cake - "The Nectar of Youth"

In a world where desserts are becoming increasingly sophisticated, some recipes return to their roots, bringing us joy and nostalgia. Today, I invite you to prepare a nectarine cake, a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also pays tribute to youth. The reason? My grandson has turned 21, and such a special moment deserves a fitting dessert! This simple yet refined recipe will transform any occasion into a celebration.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the base:
- 6 eggs (whole or free-range for a richer flavor)
- 9 tablespoons of cold water
- 1.5 cups of sugar
- 1.5 cups of flour (preferably wheat flour)
- Juice of one lemon (approximately 30 ml, adding freshness and balancing the sweetness)

For the cream:
- 700 ml of milk (whole milk for a richer cream)
- 1 cup of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- ½ pack of margarine (or butter for a better taste)

For decoration:
- Whipping cream powder (preferably a natural product)
- 150 ml of cold milk
- A whipping cream stabilizer
- Nectarines (a few, sliced for decoration)
- Plum jelly (for a sweet and tangy flavor)
- Dark chocolate (grated, for a delicious contrast)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the base

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). It's important to have the oven well-heated for even baking.
2. In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Place the egg whites in a clean bowl and add a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to beat them until you achieve stiff peaks.
3. In another bowl, mix the yolks with the sugar and the 9 tablespoons of cold water. Beat the mixture until it becomes a frothy cream of a deep yellow color. Add the lemon juice and mix gently.
4. Fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Use a spatula and gently mix from the bottom up.
5. Sift the flour over the mixture and continue to mix until well combined.
6. Grease a round cake pan with oil and dust it with flour. This will prevent the base from sticking.
7. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake in the oven for 40 minutes. Test with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the base is ready.

Step 2: Preparing the cream

1. In a medium pot, bring the milk to a boil along with the sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. In another bowl, mix the 4 tablespoons of flour with a portion of the milk (approximately 100 ml) to form a smooth paste.
3. When the milk starts to boil, add the flour paste. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. Keep on the heat until it thickens.
4. Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and add the margarine. Stir well until it melts completely and you obtain a smooth cream.

Step 3: Assembling the cake

1. After the base has completely cooled, cut it into three equal parts. This will be layered with jelly and cream.
2. On the first layer, spread a few tablespoons of plum jelly, followed by a portion of the cream. Use a spatula to smooth it out.
3. Place the second layer on top and repeat the process: jelly, then cream.
4. Finally, place the last layer and spread the remaining cream over the surface of the cake, ensuring it is even and beautiful.

Step 4: Decorating

1. Prepare the whipped cream according to the instructions on the package. It's important to use cold milk to achieve firm whipped cream.
2. Use the whipped cream to decorate the cake, adding a border around the entire surface or artistic shapes, as desired.
3. Place slices of nectarine on top of the cake and sprinkle grated chocolate on top. This will give the cake an elegant and appetizing appearance.

Practical Tips:

- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better texture of the base.
- If you don't have plum jelly, you can use any other type of fruit jelly, such as raspberry or apricot, which pairs well with nectarines.
- The cake can be refrigerated for a few hours before serving, which will enhance its flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other types of fruit for decoration?
- Absolutely! Peach or strawberry slices are excellent alternatives.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use tarter nectarines.

3. What is the best way to store the cake?
- Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. The cake will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

Pairing with Other Recipes:

The nectarine cake pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce. Additionally, served alongside a cup of fruit tea or an espresso, it will add a touch of refinement and create a delightful experience.

The nutritional benefits of this recipe include the vitamins from nectarines, rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and the fiber from whole grain flour (if you choose to use it). The cake can be a healthier choice than many other desserts, especially if the sugar content is reduced.

So, let yourself be inspired by "the nectar of youth" and turn this recipe into an unforgettable moment! Get ready to savor every bite of this delicious cake, which is not just a dessert, but a story, a tribute to youth and the joy of being together. Enjoy!