Strawberry cake

Strawberry Cake - A Healthy and Refreshing Delight

Total Preparation Time: 4 hours and 20 minutes (including freezing time)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Freezing Time: 4 hours
Number of Servings: 10

When it comes to desserts, nothing compares to a delicious cake, full of fresh flavors and interesting textures. This strawberry cake is not just a culinary indulgence, but also a healthy option, perfect for any occasion. With a base made from sunflower seeds and a smooth cashew cream, this dessert is sure to impress everyone.

A Brief History of Strawberry Cake
Strawberry desserts have a long-standing tradition, being appreciated for the fruit's natural sweetness. Strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. This cake combines healthy ingredients in an innovative way, without using flour or refined sugar, making it ideal for those looking for a health-friendly dessert.

Your Ingredients for a Perfect Cake
To achieve a delicious result, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

For the base
- 300 g raw sunflower seeds
- 4 tablespoons cocoa (preferably dark cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup (you can also use honey if you prefer)
- 6 tablespoons honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
- Vanilla extract (optional but recommended for a richer aroma)

For the cream
- 300 g soaked cashews (soak them for 6 hours)
- 80 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice (for a fresh taste)
- 60 ml maple syrup (or honey, depending on preferences)
- 70 ml melted coconut oil (this adds creaminess to the cream)
- 500 g chopped strawberries (you can also use other seasonal fruits like raspberries or blackberries)
- Vanilla extract (again, for an extra flavor boost)

For the glaze
- 4 tablespoons cocoa
- 6 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Vanilla extract (a hint of vanilla will make the glaze even more appealing)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the base
Start by gathering all the ingredients for the base. Place the sunflower seeds, cocoa, maple syrup, honey, and vanilla extract in a food processor. Blend until you get a sticky dough. This step is essential to ensure a firm texture.

2. Forming the bases
Once the dough is ready, pour it into a small cake pan (18 cm in diameter). Use a spoon or your hand to press it down well at the bottom of the pan to achieve an even and compact base.

3. Freezing the bases
After the base has formed, leave it in the freezer for 10 minutes. This cooling time will help set it, making it easier to handle later.

4. Preparing the cream
While the base is cooling, drain the soaked cashews and place them in a blender. Add the lemon juice, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Make sure there are no large chunks left!

5. Adding the strawberries
Once the cream is ready, pour it into a bowl and add the chopped strawberries. Gently mix to combine the ingredients without crushing the fruit.

6. Assembling the cake
Pour the strawberry cream over the frozen base, leveling the surface with a spatula. Place the cake back in the freezer for 3 hours to firm up.

7. Preparing the glaze
In the last minutes of waiting, prepare the glaze. Mix the cocoa, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Use a whisk to achieve a smooth and creamy composition.

8. Finalizing the cake
When the cake is completely frozen, remove it from the mold and place it on a serving plate. Pour the chilled glaze over the cake, ensuring it is evenly covered.

9. Decorating
For a festive look, decorate with fresh strawberry slices on top of the glaze. They not only look wonderful but also add a touch of freshness to each slice.

10. Serving
Cut the cake into servings and enjoy every bite! It is a healthy treat, perfect for a sweet snack, a party, or simply to indulge yourself.

Practical Tips
- If you want to vary the recipe, you can replace strawberries with other seasonal fruits like peaches or mango.
- The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to a month, so you can prepare it in advance for a special occasion.
- Serve the cake alongside herbal tea or a smoothie for an even more refreshing dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Certainly! Cashews can be replaced with pecans or regular walnuts, but make sure to choose nuts that are soaked for a creamy texture.

2. Is the cake vegan?
Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure that the coconut oil is plant-based, the cake becomes a vegan dessert.

3. How many calories are in a serving?
A serving of this cake contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the precise ingredients used. It is a much healthier option compared to traditional cakes!

In conclusion, the strawberry cake is not only a delicious dessert but also a healthy option, full of nutrients and flavor. So don't hesitate to try it and treat your family and friends with this simple and quick recipe. Enjoy!