Sponge cake with berries and Nutella

Ladyfinger Cake with Berries and Nutella

When your sweet tooth strikes, but you want to enjoy something easy to prepare, this ladyfinger cake with berries and Nutella becomes the ideal choice! It’s a quick, simple, and fantastically delicious dessert, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re getting ready for a party, a gathering with friends, or just want to treat yourself, this cake will surely please everyone.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Your ingredients will be:
- 1 large package of Savoy ladyfingers (approximately 400 g)
- 300 g of mixed berries (you can use a mix of raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries - I used frozen fruits)
- 300 ml of liquid cream (choose a cream with at least 30% fat content for a fluffy texture)
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 250 ml, for soaking the ladyfingers)
- 1 jar of Nutella (approximately 400 g)
- 1-2 bananas, sliced (you can also add pineapple or other fruits of your choice)

The story behind the recipe:
This ladyfinger cake recipe has its roots in the tradition of layered desserts, which are often prepared in various cultures. It is a popular choice due to its simplicity and versatility. Ladyfingers are easy to find and can be combined with a variety of creams and fruits, offering a palette of flavors to delight the taste buds.

Step by step for a perfect cake:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by gathering all the ingredients at room temperature. Make sure the berries are thawed (if using frozen) and that the cream is well chilled, so it’s easy to whip.

2. Soaking the ladyfingers:
In a bowl, pour the milk. Take each Savoy ladyfinger and quickly dip it in the milk, being careful not to soak it too much, or it will break. Shake off the excess milk and place them on a platter or cake stand.

3. The Nutella layer:
After placing the first layer of ladyfingers, take the jar of Nutella and spread an even layer over the ladyfingers. Use a spatula or knife to distribute the Nutella well, so each bite is full of flavor.

4. Adding the bananas:
Slice the bananas thinly and arrange them evenly over the Nutella layer. They will add a creamy texture and natural sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the chocolate.

5. The ladyfinger layer with pineapple:
Continue with another layer of ladyfingers, which you will spread again with Nutella and add slices of pineapple (or other fruits, as preferred). The pineapple will bring a tropical flavor that enriches the dessert.

6. The final layer and cream:
Place a final layer of ladyfingers on top. Whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm, then spread it evenly over the entire cake, ensuring to cover the edges well.

7. Decorating with berries:
Before adding the berries, it’s good to dip them in hot water for 3 minutes to quickly thaw and clean them. Make sure to let them drain well before using. Arrange the berries over the cake, covering as evenly as possible for a colorful and appetizing look.

8. Chilling the cake:
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (ideally, let it sit overnight) to firm up and allow the flavors to meld.

Serving suggestions:
When you’re ready to serve the cake, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness. This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic coffee.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of ladyfingers? Yes, you can experiment with biscuit-type ladyfingers or even digestive biscuits.
- How can I make the cake healthier? Replace Nutella with a less sweet cocoa cream or almond butter, and fresh fruits can add vitamins and fiber.
- Can I prepare the cake a day in advance? Absolutely! In fact, it’s recommended to let it chill in the refrigerator to intensify the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
This ladyfinger cake is rich in carbohydrates from the ladyfingers and fruits, providing a quick source of energy. Berries are an excellent choice due to their high content of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. While Nutella adds a dose of chocolate, it’s best to consume it in moderation due to its caloric content.

Possible variations:
- Replace bananas with peaches or kiwi for a burst of different flavors.
- Add a layer of cream cheese between layers for a delicious contrast.
- Use coconut milk to make the cake more exotic.

So embark on a culinary adventure and enjoy every bite of this ladyfinger cake with berries and Nutella. Each layer will give you an explosion of flavors and textures, and your family and friends will be delighted by this simple yet refined treat!