Peach Cake with Meringue

Peach and meringue cake: a sweet delicacy that combines the fluffy texture of the dough with the intense flavor of peaches and a light, crispy meringue. This carefully adapted recipe is perfect for bringing a touch of sunshine to every day, offering not just a delicious dessert but also a satisfying cooking experience.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

- 5 large eggs
- 2 large cups of granulated sugar
- 1 large cup of milk (preferably whole for a richer texture)
- 1 large cup of oil (sunflower oil is ideal)
- 3 cups of flour
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon (for an extra touch of freshness)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- A pinch of iodized salt
- 8 ripe peaches (not too soft, to maintain their shape)

A bit of history:

Fruit cakes are a culinary tradition that has crossed generations, often prepared for holidays or special events. Being a combination of simple yet rich-tasting ingredients, these cakes have become a symbol of comfort and joy, reminding us of moments spent with loved ones. Peaches, with their sweet and juicy aroma, add an extra flavor and colorful appearance, transforming any dessert into a true work of art.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, crack the 5 eggs and add 1 large cup of granulated sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients on high speed until you achieve a creamy and light-colored mixture, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Incorporating the liquid ingredients: Add the oil and milk, continuously mixing to integrate the ingredients. The lemon zest will add a fresh note, so don’t skip it!

3. Flour and baking powder: Sift the flour and baking powder directly into the bowl, gently mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. It is important not to overmix to avoid developing gluten and to achieve a fluffy cake.

4. Preparing the pan: If you have a baking pan, use it. I had my pan occupied, so I opted for a cake mold. Grease the mold with a little oil and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

5. Baking the dough: Pour the dough into the prepared pan and place it in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). Bake for about 15 minutes, until the dough starts to set.

6. Preparing the peaches: Meanwhile, peel the peaches and cut them into slices or cubes. They will add moisture and sweetness to the cake.

7. Adding the peaches: After the 15 minutes of baking, remove the pan from the oven and arrange the peaches on top of the dough. Put the pan back in the oven for another 20-25 minutes, until the dough is fully baked.

8. Preparing the meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a cup of granulated sugar and a pinch of salt until you get a firm and glossy meringue. This step is essential to achieve a meringue that stays airy and doesn’t deflate.

9. Finishing the cake: Once the cake has passed the toothpick test (when the toothpick comes out clean), take it out of the oven and spread the meringue evenly on top. Put the cake back in the oven at 150 degrees Celsius for about 60 minutes, or until the meringue turns golden and crispy.

10. Cooling and serving: Let the cake cool in the mold, then cut it the next day. This will allow the flavors to develop and the texture to stabilize.

Practical tips:

- Choose ripe peaches: Check that they are firm but ripe, so they don’t turn to mush during baking.
- Perfect meringue: Ensure that the bowl in which you beat the egg whites is completely clean and dry, and that the egg whites are at room temperature for better meringue.
- Delicious variations: You can also add other fruits, such as apricots or raspberries, to diversify the flavor. Additionally, try adding ground nuts to the dough for extra texture.

Frequently asked questions:

- Why did my meringue deflate?: Make sure you didn’t overbeat the egg whites and that you didn’t add wet ingredients to the meringue.
- Can I use frozen fruit?: Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well of excess water.

Serving and pairing:

This peach and meringue cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of herbal tea. It can also be served with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence.

Approximate calories per serving: 250-300 kcal, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Bake this peach and meringue cake to bring a touch of sweetness to your daily routine. Whether it’s a gathering with friends or a family meal, this recipe is sure to impress everyone!