Peach and apricot cake

Summer Fruit Cake: A Burst of Flavors and Aromas in Every Slice

When it comes to desserts, nothing is more comforting and delightful than a cake made with fresh or seasonal fruits. This peach and apricot cake recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to use any type of fruit you have on hand. Whether you choose berries, apples, or even jam, our cake will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients

- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 150 g butter or Rama margarine (at room temperature)
- 100 g sugar
- 250 g flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- Zest of one orange
- 200 g frozen peaches (or canned)
- 200 g frozen apricots (or canned)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for decoration
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the pan
- 1 tablespoon flour for dusting the pan

Chef's tip: Use seasonal fruits for a more intense flavor. If you have fresh fruits, feel free to use them instead of frozen ones!

The History of Fruit Cake

Fruit cakes have a long-standing tradition in global cuisine, made in various forms since ancient times. These desserts are often associated with family gatherings and celebrations, providing not only a delicious taste but also a sense of warmth and comfort. By using simple ingredients, each culture has contributed to this classic recipe, turning it into a masterpiece of sweets.

Preparing the Fruit Cake

1. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, add the two eggs, a pinch of salt, and the sugar. Using a whisk or mixer, beat them together until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color. This will help achieve a fluffy base.

2. Add the butter: Incorporate the soft butter (at room temperature) into the egg mixture. Continue mixing until the butter is fully absorbed and the mixture becomes creamy.

3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and orange zest. Gradually add this mixture to the egg composition, gently folding with a spatula or whisk until there are no traces of flour. Avoid overmixing, as this will make the base dense.

4. The fruits: If using frozen peaches and apricots, ensure they are thawed and peeled. Cut the peaches into small pieces and slice the apricots. Add the fruits to the batter and gently stir to incorporate.

5. Prepare the pan: Grease a 22/30 cm baking pan with a tablespoon of butter and dust it with flour to prevent the cake from sticking. This is an essential step for achieving a perfect base.

6. Pour the batter: Using a spoon, pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out with a spatula. This step will ensure even baking.

7. Add the fruits: Arrange the apricot slices on top of the batter, distributing them evenly. Sprinkle vanilla sugar and cinnamon on top for added flavor.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius and place the pan inside. Bake the cake for 30 minutes or until it turns golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cooling: After removing the cake from the oven, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, dust it with powdered sugar, slice it, and serve.

Serving suggestions: This cake is perfect served warm, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can also pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.

Possible variations: Experiment with other fruits, such as apples, pears, or even berries. You can substitute sugar with a natural sweetener for a healthier version. If you want a more exotic flavor, add some chopped nuts or coconut flakes to the batter.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned fruit? Yes, canned fruit is an excellent alternative, but make sure to drain it well before use to avoid a soggy batter.
- How can I store the cake? Keep the cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can be frozen for longer storage.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using flax eggs or other substitutes, such as a mixture of banana and water to replace the eggs.

Nutritional benefits: This cake provides a good source of vitamins and minerals thanks to the fruits. Peaches and apricots are rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to skin health and the immune system.

Enjoy every slice of this fruit cake, which is not only delicious but also brings a touch of happiness in every bite! Start your culinary adventure today and transform simple ingredients into an unforgettable dessert!