Punch cake, vanilla and fruit cocktail

Punch, Vanilla and Fruit Cocktail Cake - A Refreshing Delight for Any Occasion

I present to you a cake recipe that is sure to become the star of any party or family gathering. This punch, vanilla, and fruit cocktail cake is not only delicious but also an excellent choice for those who prefer easy-to-make desserts full of flavors. Let's explore together how to transform a few simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece, perfect for delighting the taste buds of your loved ones.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 10

Ingredients Needed

For the sponge:
- 5 fresh eggs
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of water (rose water is ideal for a subtle aroma)
- 1 pinch of baking powder

For the filling:
- 1 packet of punch pudding
- 1 packet of vanilla cream
- 600 g fruit cocktail (you can use canned or fresh fruits, depending on your preference)
- 900 ml milk
- 2 packets of ladyfingers
- Whipped cream (optional, for decoration)

A Brief History

The punch and vanilla cake is a recipe that has evolved over time, borrowed and adapted from various culinary traditions. The combination of delicate cream and fresh fruits makes this dessert perfect for festive events as well as for a simple family afternoon. It is a dessert that brings joy and nostalgia, evoking beautiful moments spent with loved ones.

Step-by-Step Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the sponge:
- Start by preheating the oven to 160°C. Ensure it is well heated before introducing the cake for even baking.
- Separate the egg whites from the yolks. In a large bowl, beat the yolks with the sugar and water (or rose water) until the mixture becomes frothy and changes color to white.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until a firm foam forms.
- Gradually add the flour mixed with baking powder to the yolk mixture, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air.
- Incorporate half of the beaten egg whites, mixing carefully. Then, repeat the process with the other half of the egg whites.
- Pour the mixture into a baking pan lined with parchment paper and level the surface. Bake at 160°C for about 30 minutes, or until the sponge is firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

2. Preparing the filling:
- While the sponge is baking, prepare the punch pudding according to the instructions on the package, using the 900 ml of milk. Mix well and let it cool.
- Also, prepare the vanilla cream according to the instructions on the package. Ensure both preparations are cool before using them.

3. Assembling the cake:
- After the sponge has completely cooled, carefully cut it into two equal parts.
- Place the first half on a serving platter and soak it well with the juice from the fruit cocktail. This will add moisture and flavor to the sponge.
- Spread a layer of punch pudding and add the fruits on top. Then, place the other half of the sponge, cut side up, and soak again.
- Now, cover the cake with the vanilla cream, ensuring it is evenly distributed on both the top and the sides.
- If the ladyfingers are taller than the height of the cake, cut them to the desired size and stick them to the edge of the cake with the vanilla cream for an elegant look.

4. Final decorations:
- You can decorate the cake to your liking, adding fresh fruits, grated chocolate, or even coconut flakes. Serve it with whipped cream if you want an extra touch of flavor.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality ingredients: Use fresh eggs and whole milk to achieve a fluffy sponge and creamy fillings.
- Fruits: Experiment with various fruit combinations to add a personal touch to your cake. Berries or pineapple are excellent choices.
- Cooling: Let the cake chill for a few hours before serving, so the flavors combine perfectly.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This cake contains approximately 350 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used and the serving sizes. The fruits add vitamins and antioxidants, while the vanilla cream provides a rich and creamy taste. It is a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of fruits?
Yes, you can replace the fruit cocktail with your favorite fruits, whether fresh or canned, depending on the season.

- How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.

- How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the sponge and opt for a lower-sugar punch pudding.

Conclusion

The punch, vanilla, and fruit cocktail cake is an ideal choice for any occasion, being easy to prepare and full of delicious flavors. With every bite, you will bring joy and smiles to the faces of your loved ones. I hope these tips and details will help you create a perfect cake that becomes part of your culinary traditions. Enjoy!