Sponge cake with cream cheese

Sponge cake with cream cheese and berry jam

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Introduction

Imagine a fluffy cake with an airy texture and a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly combines cream cheese with berry jam. This cream cheese sponge cake recipe will not only win the hearts of family and friends but also serves as a fantastic source of inspiration for special moments. Whether it's an anniversary, a party, or simply a relaxing afternoon, this dessert will add a touch of elegance to your table.

A brief history of sponge cake

Sponge cake is a classic dessert with origins that date back to ancient times. It is known for its ease of preparation and for being customizable in countless ways. The cream cheese added to this recipe brings a touch of refinement and delicious creaminess, while the berry jam perfectly complements the flavor, providing a wonderful contrast between sweet and tangy.

Ingredients

For the sponge cake:
- 5 eggs
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 150 g flour (ideally type 00 for a finer texture)
- 200 g cream cheese (choose a high-fat cream cheese for a richer taste)
- 50 g powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for a more intense flavor)
- 200 ml whipped cream (you can also use plant-based cream if you prefer)
- 100 g berry jam (you can opt for other jams, but berries add a note of freshness)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the sponge cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). In a large bowl, crack the 5 eggs and add the granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on high speed until it becomes a smooth, light-colored cream. This process will take about 5-7 minutes. The resulting cream should form a "peak" when you lift the mixer blades.

2. Incorporating the flour
Sift the flour over the egg cream, adding it gradually, in a rain-like fashion. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to gently fold it in, being careful not to lose the air in the mixture. The movements should be light, from top to bottom, to maintain the fluffy texture.

3. Baking the sponge cake
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and grease it with butter. Pour the batter into the tray, smoothing it out. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Check if it's done by inserting a toothpick in the center of the sponge; if it comes out clean, the cake is baked. Let the sponge cool in the tray for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

4. Preparing the cream cheese
In a bowl, combine the cream cheese with the powdered sugar. Using a mixer, beat until you achieve a creamy and smooth mixture. Add the lemon juice and continue mixing. In another bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese, mixing gently with a spatula to maintain the airiness.

5. Assembling the dessert
Once the sponge has cooled completely, cut it in half horizontally. Using a piping bag, create 3 concentric circles on the surface of one half, leaving spaces between them. Fill the circles with the berry jam. This will add a note of freshness and an explosion of flavors.

6. Finalizing
Place the other half of the sponge on top, dust with powdered sugar and, if desired, a sprinkle of cocoa for a more elegant look.

Serving suggestions and variations

The cream cheese sponge cake is best served cold, alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can add fresh fruits on top for a more colorful appearance or even vanilla ice cream for a warm-cold contrast. Another interesting variation would be to replace the berry jam with a chocolate or salted caramel filling for a completely different experience.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace the cream cheese?
Yes, you can use vegan cream cheese or mascarpone, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I keep the sponge fresh?
Cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for 2-3 days.

3. Can I add another type of jam?
Of course! You can experiment with different jams, such as apricot, peach, or even a fruit mix.

Nutritional benefits

This cake offers a combination of protein from the eggs and cream cheese, with a supply of vitamins and antioxidants from the berries. It is also a source of energy due to the sugar, but it's best to consume it in moderation, especially if you are watching your caloric intake.

Calories per serving: approximately 250-300, depending on the ingredients used.

Conclusion

The sponge cake with cream cheese and berry jam is not only a delicious dessert but also an opportunity to explore creativity in the kitchen. Each bite brings a perfect balance of textures and flavors, and making it can become a family tradition. Feel free to customize your recipe, experiment with different jams, and share the results with your loved ones. Enjoy!