Peach sponge cake

Peach sponge cake – a delicious, fluffy, and comforting dessert

When the wind blows cold outside and the rain is pouring, nothing compares to the pleasure of preparing a warm and aromatic dessert. So today, I invite you to discover the recipe for a peach sponge cake, a simple dessert but with a unique taste, perfect for delighting your senses on gloomy days.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8

Essential ingredients:
- 1 kg peaches (preferably juicy and ripe)
- 10 tablespoons of sugar (adjust according to desired sweetness)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 6 fresh eggs
- 10 tablespoons of flour
- Vanilla essence (optional, but recommended for an extra flavor)

A bit of history
Sponge cake is a classic dessert that has its origins in pastry recipes from ancient times. It is a light yet very versatile dish that can be customized with various fruits, giving a unique touch to each version. This peach variant is one of the most beloved, thanks to the perfect combination of fluffy cake and juicy fruit.

Preparing the ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Choose well-ripened peaches that are juicy and aromatic. This will make a difference in the final taste of the sponge cake. Also, don't forget to check if the eggs are fresh – a simple trick is to submerge them in a bowl of water; if they float, they are no longer good.

Step by step to a perfect sponge cake

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. It is important to have the oven well heated to allow the batter to rise evenly.

2. Start by preparing the baking tray. Use a rectangular tray, lightly greased with butter or lined with parchment paper. Then mix the 10 tablespoons of sugar with the 2 packets of vanilla sugar and sprinkle the mixture evenly on the bottom of the tray.

3. Wash the peaches and slice them thinly. Place them in a sieve to let the juice drain. This step will help keep the sponge cake light and fluffy, without soaking it too much with moisture.

4. In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Using a mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Here, it is important to be patient – well-beaten egg whites will make the sponge cake rise and become fluffy.

5. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to mix. You will notice that the mixture becomes glossy and stiff. Now, add one yolk at a time, making sure to incorporate it well before adding the next. Finally, add the vanilla essence – this will add a subtle fragrance.

6. Sift the flour and gradually fold it into the egg mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix gently, with up-and-down motions, to avoid deflating the batter.

7. Now, arrange the peach slices in the prepared tray, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Then, carefully pour the batter over the fruit, making sure to cover them completely.

8. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After this time, rotate the tray (if you have a fan oven) and let it bake for another 20 minutes. A good trick is to check with a toothpick – if it comes out clean, the sponge cake is ready.

9. Once the sponge cake is baked, let it cool in the tray for a few minutes. Then, turn it out onto a serving platter. An important detail: pour the syrup left by the peaches into the baking tray before placing the sponge cake on the platter. This syrup will add extra moisture and flavor to the layers.

10. Let the sponge cake soak for 30 minutes before cutting it. I guarantee it will disappear quickly!

Practical tips
- If you don't have peaches, don't worry! This recipe is extremely versatile. You can use strawberries, raspberries, cherries, or even rhubarb. Each variant will bring a unique note to the dessert.
- Don't forget to adjust the amount of sugar according to the fruits used. For example, if you use cherries, which are more tart, you might want to add a little more sugar.
- Serve the sponge cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sweet cream for a delicious contrast!

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I make the sponge cake with frozen fruit?
Yes, but make sure to let them thaw and drain well to avoid excess water in the batter.

2. How can I store the sponge cake?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. It can also be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best texture.

3. Is it possible to replace the eggs with vegan alternatives?
Yes, you can use banana puree or a mixture of flaxseed and water to replace the eggs. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary.

Nutritional benefits
Peach sponge cake is a healthier choice compared to many other desserts, thanks to the fresh fruit content, which is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Peaches are a good source of vitamins C and A, helping to strengthen the immune system and maintain skin health.

In conclusion, peach sponge cake is that dessert that brings comfort and warmth on chilly days. With every bite, you will feel how the flavors intertwine, offering you an unforgettable culinary experience. So, gather your ingredients and let's get cooking! I promise you won't regret it!