Strawberry cake

Strawberry Cake – A Fruity Delight

Who doesn't love the fresh aroma of strawberries? This strawberry cake is not just a quick dessert, but also a wonderful way to bring summer to your table, no matter the season. Made with simple ingredients and an ingenious technique, this cake is sure to become your favorite. Start your culinary adventure and let the sweet taste of strawberries carry you away!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 10 eggs (separated into whites and yolks)
- 2 cups of sugar
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of oil (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- juice of one lemon
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 tablespoon of rum essence
- 3-4 tablespoons of cocoa powder (optional, for a more interesting appearance)
- 1-2 cups of ground walnuts
- 1-2 cups of fresh strawberries

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 160°C. This is the ideal temperature to bake the cake evenly, achieving a fluffy texture.

2. Separating the eggs: Separate the eggs into two different bowls, ensuring no yolks remain in the whites. This step is crucial, as well-beaten egg whites will add air and volume to your cake.

3. Preparing the yolk mixture: In a large bowl, mix the yolks with the oil until it becomes a smooth and creamy mixture. Add the lemon juice, then dissolve the baking powder in the lemon juice and incorporate it into the mixture. Don't forget to add the salt, which will enhance the flavor.

4. Beating the egg whites: In another bowl, add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and start beating them with a mixer. When they become frothy, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a white and firm foam. This is a crucial moment, so don't rush!

5. Combining the mixtures: Add the yolk mixture to the egg whites gradually, and gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon to avoid losing air in the mixture. This technique will ensure a fluffy cake.

6. Incorporating the flour: Sift the flour over the egg mixture, adding it gradually. Gently mix from the bottom up to achieve a homogeneous mixture. If you want to enrich the consistency, you can add ground walnuts at this stage.

7. Preparing the baking pan: Line a baking pan with parchment paper. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the mixture into the pan, leveling it with a spatula.

8. Preparing the strawberries: Wash the strawberries and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. To prevent them from sinking to the bottom, toss them in a little flour before adding them to the batter. Arrange the strawberries on top of the mixture in the pan.

9. Baking the cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake on low heat for the first 30 minutes. Then, increase the temperature and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cake is nicely browned. The toothpick test is essential here – if the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is ready.

10. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can serve it plain or with a little whipped cream on top for added flavor.

Practical tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a little vanilla extract to the batter.
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, to vary the recipe.
- Serving the cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream will transform the dessert into a decadent experience.

Nutritional benefits:
The strawberry cake contains protein from the eggs and healthy fats from the oil and walnuts. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, providing a nutritional boost to your dessert.

Calories:
One serving of cake contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
2. How can I store the cake? It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness.

This strawberry cake will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of warmth and joy to your table. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family. Enjoy!