Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake: A Seasonal Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Welcome to the delicious world of cakes! Today, I will share with you an enticing recipe for strawberry cake, a seasonal dessert that delights not only the taste buds but also the eyes. Strawberries, with their sweet and fragrant flavor, are the stars of this recipe, and their combination with a fluffy batter makes each bite a true feast. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

A Brief History of Strawberry Cake

Strawberry cake has its roots in seasonal culinary traditions when fresh fruits were used to create delicious desserts. Strawberries are beloved fruits, not only for their taste but also for the nutritional benefits they bring. Over time, this cake has evolved, becoming appreciated in various forms around the world. Whether we prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat ourselves, strawberry cake remains a favorite.

Nutritional Benefits of Strawberries

Strawberries are not only delicious but also extremely healthy. These fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here are some of their benefits:
- Antioxidants: Strawberries have a high antioxidant content, protecting the body from free radicals.
- Heart health: Strawberries contribute to maintaining heart health, having a high potassium content that helps regulate blood pressure.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: These fruits help reduce inflammation and lower bad cholesterol (LDL).
- Low calories: Strawberries are low in calories, making them ideal for a balanced diet.

Now that we’ve reviewed the benefits of strawberries, let’s get to work!

Necessary Ingredients

- 500 g fresh strawberries
- 250-300 g sugar (depending on desired sweetness)
- 4 eggs
- 120 ml oil
- 80 g butter (soft)
- 150 g yogurt
- 400 g flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla essence (to taste)

Step by Step: Preparing the Strawberry Cake

1. Preparing the strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries well under cold running water to remove impurities. Remove the stems and leaves, then cut the strawberries in halves or quarters, depending on your preference. It is important to use fresh strawberries as their aroma will make the cake even more delicious.

2. Preparing the batter:
In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Using a mixer, beat the egg whites with a bag of sugar until you achieve a consistent foam (about 5-7 minutes). Ensure that the sugar crystals have completely dissolved.

Then, add the yolks one at a time, the vanilla essence, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until homogeneous.

3. Adding wet ingredients:
In the egg mixture, incorporate the soft butter, oil, and yogurt. Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.

4. Incorporating dry ingredients:
In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet composition, gently mixing with a spatula. Use up-and-down motions to avoid losing air from the egg whites.

5. Preparing the baking tray:
Take a non-stick baking tray and line it with baking paper greased with a little butter or oil. This will prevent the cake from sticking.

6. Assembling the cake:
Pour half of the batter into the tray. Place half of the strawberries on top, then pour the remaining batter. Cover with the rest of the strawberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed across the surface of the cake. Use a spoon to gently push the fruits into the batter so that they are evenly covered after baking.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the cake tray in the oven and let it bake for 50-60 minutes. Perform the toothpick test to check if it’s done; if it comes out clean, the cake is baked.

8. Cooling and serving:
After the cake is golden and has a nice color, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut it into portions as desired. You can dust it with powdered sugar, but I recommend leaving it plain to highlight its natural beauty.

Practical Tips

- Choose ripe strawberries: Look for firm fruits with an even color. Overripe strawberries can affect the cake's texture.
- Variations: You can replace strawberries with other seasonal fruits, such as cherries or raspberries. A combination of fruits can add extra flavor and color.
- Serving: This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce. A cup of tea or coffee will perfectly complement the dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid excess moisture.

- How can I store the cake?
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for longer preservation.

- Can I use alternative sweeteners?
Of course, you can try using natural or artificial sweeteners, but check their proportions, as they may affect the final texture.

Conclusion

Strawberry cake is a simple yet extremely tasty dessert, perfect for any occasion. Its sweet aroma and the contrasting textures of strawberries with the fluffy batter make it irresistible. Don’t hesitate to try it and adapt it to your tastes! I wish you much success in the kitchen and, above all, enjoy your meal!