Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake - A Sweet and Refreshing Delight

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Who doesn't love the fresh aroma of strawberries combined with a fluffy and light cake? This strawberry cake recipe is not only simple but also delicious, perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Whether you're preparing it for an outdoor picnic or a family gathering, this cake will surely become everyone's favorite.

Moreover, strawberries are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. These fruits are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a true ally for health. So, let's get started!

Ingredients

- 500 g fresh strawberries
- 300 g flour
- 150 ml oil (preferably sunflower or canola)
- 250 g sugar
- 100 ml milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 tablespoon of grated lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon of rum essence
- 2 tablespoons of semolina
- 1 packet of baking powder
- Vanilla sugar and fine sugar for decoration

Step 1: Preparing the Strawberries

1. Cleaning and preparing the strawberries: Start by cleaning the strawberries. Remove the leaves and stems, then wash them well under cold running water. Let them drain completely to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

2. Coating with semolina: Once drained, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of semolina over the strawberries. This trick will help absorb the juices they release during baking, keeping the cake fluffy.

Step 2: Preparing the Batter

3. Separating the eggs: Separate the yolks from the whites. Make sure the bowls are clean to achieve beaten egg whites.

4. Mixing the yolks: In a bowl, beat the yolks with 100 g of sugar and the grated lemon zest. Use a whisk or a mixer on low speed to obtain a homogeneous and light-colored mixture.

5. Adding liquid ingredients: Continue mixing, gradually adding the oil and then the milk. These ingredients will give the cake a moist and rich texture.

6. Beating the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add the remaining sugar (150 g) and the rum essence. Continue beating until the egg whites are firm and glossy.

Step 3: Combining the Mixtures

7. Combining the mixtures: Carefully add the yolk mixture over the egg whites. Use a spatula or a whisk to combine the two mixtures, being careful not to lose the air from the egg whites.

8. Adding the flour: Sift the flour and baking powder over the egg mixture and gently mix until no lumps remain. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use the mixer for a short time, but don't overdo it.

Step 4: Baking

9. Preparing the baking pan: Grease a 27 cm pan well with oil and dust with flour to prevent sticking. This step is essential to ensure the cake releases easily.

10. Pouring the batter: Pour the batter into the pan and arrange the prepared strawberries on top. You can arrange the strawberries in any shape you like for a beautiful appearance.

11. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (low-medium heat) and bake the cake for 30-35 minutes. Check occasionally using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Step 5: Serving

12. Cooling and decorating: Once the cake is nicely browned, let it cool slightly in the pan, then transfer it to a platter. Sprinkle vanilla sugar and fine sugar on top for an elegant look and delicious aroma.

Helpful Tips

- Variations: You can replace strawberries with other seasonal fruits, such as blueberries or peaches, to give your cake a different twist.
- Serving: This cake is excellent served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a berry sauce. Additionally, a cup of tea or a refreshing drink will perfectly complement the dessert.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- *Does the cake keep well in the fridge?* Yes, it can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.
- *Can I use frozen strawberries?* Although it's preferable to use fresh strawberries, you can also use frozen ones, but make sure to thaw and drain them well.

Nutritional Information

A serving of strawberry cake contains approximately 220 calories, making it a lighter option than many other desserts. Strawberries bring a wealth of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making this cake a healthier choice.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left to do is get to work! Enjoy making this cake and don't forget to share the result with your loved ones. Bon appétit!