Sponge cake with hearts

Strawberry Heart Sponge Cake

When it comes to desserts, few recipes have the power to bring a smile to the faces of loved ones like a strawberry heart sponge cake. This recipe not only combines the delicate taste of whipped egg whites with the sweetness of strawberries, but it also reminds us of the beautiful moments spent with our dear ones. Whether it's an anniversary, a celebration, or simply a weekend afternoon, this dessert is perfect for adding a touch of joy.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the strawberry jam sponge:
- 4 egg whites
- 125 g sugar
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 125 g flour
- 1 packet orange essence
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons strawberry jam
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

For the white sponge:
- 4 egg whites
- 125 g sugar
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 125 g flour
- 1 packet orange essence
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the bowl in which you will whip the egg whites is clean and dry. Ensure that there is no yolk in the egg whites to achieve a consistent foam.

2. Whipping the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the egg whites, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they form a firm foam. Start at low speed and gradually increase to avoid splattering.

3. Adding the sugar: Once the egg whites have started to thicken, gradually add the sugar. Continue mixing until the sugar is completely dissolved and the egg whites become glossy.

4. Mixing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This step is crucial to avoid lumps in the batter.

5. Combining the ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg whites, gently folding with a spatula. This will help maintain the air in the egg whites, giving the sponge a fluffy texture.

6. Preparing the strawberry jam: In a small bowl, combine the strawberry jam with the baking soda dissolved in lemon juice and the orange essence. This mixture will add an intense fruity flavor and contribute to the moisture of the batter.

7. Incorporating the jam: Add the jam mixture to the sponge batter and gently mix to combine.

8. Preparing the baking pan: Grease a loaf pan with oil and dust it with flour. This will help prevent the sponge from sticking to the pan.

9. Baking the strawberry jam sponge: Pour the batter into the pan and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick test comes out clean.

10. Cooling the sponges: Once the sponge is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting. This step is important to avoid crumbling.

11. Preparing the white sponge: Repeat the above steps to prepare the white sponge using the same ingredients. Ensure that the egg whites are whipped just as well to achieve a fluffy sponge.

12. Assembling the strawberry hearts: Once the strawberry sponge has completely cooled, cut out hearts using a cookie cutter. Arrange the strawberry hearts in the pan, ensuring they are well fixed.

13. Adding the white sponge: Pour the white sponge batter over the strawberry hearts, making sure to cover evenly.

14. Finalizing the baking: Return to the oven for another 25-30 minutes until the white sponge passes the toothpick test.

15. Cooling and serving: Remove the sponge from the oven, let it cool completely, then cut into slices. Now is the perfect time to enjoy this wonderful delicacy!

Serving suggestions: You can serve the sponge with a vanilla sauce or a scoop of ice cream for a delicious contrast. A cup of tea or fresh lemonade also perfectly complements this dessert.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of chocolate, you can sprinkle chocolate chips or cocoa into the sponge batter.
- Make sure to let the batter rest for a few minutes before baking; this will help develop the flavors.

Nutritional information (per serving, estimated):
Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fat: 6 g

In the end, remember that cooking is an art form and every recipe is a story. Personalize this strawberry heart sponge cake as you like, and don't hesitate to share the results with loved ones. This is not just a recipe, but an opportunity to create beautiful memories around the table. Enjoy!