Strawberry and vanilla ice cream cake

Strawberry and Vanilla Ice Cream Cake

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes (for preparing the strawberry puree)
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Who doesn’t love a refreshing dessert on hot summer days? The strawberry and vanilla ice cream cake is a perfect choice to impress family and friends, combining the sweet and creamy flavor of vanilla with the tart taste of fresh strawberries. This recipe is not only delicious but also a true visual delight, making each serving a special experience.

A bit of history: Ice cream is a dessert that has been cherished throughout the centuries, with origins in frozen treats from antiquity. Over time, it has evolved into the creamy and delicious dessert we know today. This combination of strawberries and vanilla is classic, holding a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers.

Ingredients

For the strawberry layer:
- 500 g fresh strawberries
- 4 eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
- 200 g sugar
- 500 ml liquid cream

For the vanilla layer:
- 8 eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
- 200 g sugar
- 1 vial of vanilla essence
- 400 ml liquid cream

Step by Step

1. Preparing the strawberry puree:
- Start by removing the stems from the strawberries. Make sure they are fresh and ripe for an intense flavor.
- Mix the strawberries with 100 g of sugar in a bowl. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release their natural juice.
- Place the mixture in a pot over medium heat and bring it to a boil. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes a thicker paste, similar to jam. This step will help reduce the syrup to avoid ice crystal formation.
- Once the puree has cooled, blend it with a mixer to achieve a smooth texture.

2. Preparing the vanilla ice cream base:
- In a large bowl, beat the yolks with the vanilla essence and 100 g of sugar until they become a fluffy cream of a bright yellow color.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites with 100 g of sugar until you obtain a firm, glossy foam.
- Gradually fold the egg white foam into the yolk mixture, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm, then gently fold it into the vanilla mixture.

3. Combining the mixtures:
- Take a portion of the vanilla mixture and add it to a freezing container. This will be the first layer of your refreshing cake.
- Add a layer of strawberry puree on top, followed by another layer of vanilla mixture. Repeat the layering until all ingredients are used, ensuring the last layer is vanilla.
- Finally, decorate the cake with fresh strawberry slices, grated chocolate, or nuts according to your preference.

4. Freezing:
- Cover the container with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight, to firm up well.

Serving suggestions:
Serve this ice cream cake with warm chocolate sauce or a drizzle of strawberry syrup for an extra burst of flavor. You can also add a few mint leaves for a refined look.

Practical tips:
- Use seasonal strawberries for the best flavors.
- Ensure the cream is well-chilled before whipping to achieve perfect texture.
- If you prefer, you can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blackberries to create delicious variations.
- The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.

Nutritional benefits:
This ice cream cake, although a dessert, contains vitamins from the fruits and proteins from the eggs. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, with a low calorie content. A serving of cake has approximately 350 calories, making it a less guilty choice to satisfy a sweet craving.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

2. Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can try using vegan egg alternatives like flaxseeds or bananas, but the texture will be different.

3. What other fruits can I use?
Besides strawberries, you can use raspberries, blueberries, peaches, or even mango for a tropical flavor.

Now you are ready to impress your guests with this strawberry and vanilla ice cream cake! Don’t forget to enjoy every bite and share your creation with loved ones. Cooking is an art, and every dessert is a story you can write in your kitchen!