Strawberry meringue cake

Strawberry Meringue Cake – The Delight of Summer

Who doesn’t love summer? The shining sun, blooming flowers, and of course, the fresh fruits that delight our taste buds. One of the most beloved treats of the warm season is the strawberry meringue cake. This delicious recipe combines a soft and fragrant sponge, juicy strawberries, and fluffy meringue into a symphony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients:

- 500 g fresh strawberries
- 1 and a half jars of strawberry jam
- 7 large, fresh eggs
- 11 tablespoons of sugar
- 7 tablespoons of sugar for meringue
- 11 tablespoons of sunflower oil (or another neutral oil)
- 12 tablespoons of milk
- 13 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- a pinch of salt

Preparation:

1. Separating the eggs: Start by carefully separating the yolks from the whites. It is important that the egg whites contain no yolk at all to achieve a perfect, fluffy meringue.

2. Preparing the sponge: In a large bowl, mix the yolks with 11 tablespoons of sugar using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes white and fluffy. This step is essential, as the air incorporated will make the sponge lighter. Gradually add the oil and milk, continuing to mix to achieve a homogeneous mixture. Incorporate the flour and baking powder, mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed until there are no lumps.

3. Preparing the tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat). Line a tray (preferably 30x40 cm) with butter and flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Pour the sponge mixture into the tray and level the surface.

4. Baking the sponge: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the sponge is lightly golden and passes the toothpick test.

5. Preparing the strawberries: Meanwhile, wash the strawberries under a stream of cold water and dry them with a paper towel. Cut them in half or quarters, depending on your preference.

6. Preparing the meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt using a mixer on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the 7 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to mix until the meringue becomes glossy and forms stiff peaks. Ensure the sugar is completely dissolved for a fine texture.

7. Assembling the cake: Remove the sponge from the oven and quickly spread the strawberry jam over it, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Place the cut strawberries on top of the jam, then spread the meringue over them, using a spatula to create a rustic and appealing look.

8. Final baking: Put the cake back in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the meringue turns golden and crispy, but soft inside. It is important not to open the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the meringue from collapsing.

9. Cooling: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for a few hours before cutting. This will allow the flavors to develop and make slicing easier.

10. Serving: Cut the cake into squares and serve it with a vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect temperature contrast. You can also add fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of refinement.

Practical tips:

- Choosing strawberries: Choose fresh, firm, and ripe strawberries, as they will provide the best flavor for your cake. You can also use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

- Variations: You can also experiment with other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create a different meringue cake that suits your preferences.

- Sugar: If you want a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the mixture, but be careful with the meringue, which needs to be sweet enough to balance the acidity of the strawberries.

Nutritional benefits:

This strawberry cake offers a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants due to the strawberries. The eggs and milk add quality protein and calcium, making this cake a more balanced choice than many other desserts.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a richer taste and denser texture.

2. How can I store the cake? The cake stores well in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.

3. Is the cake suitable for special occasions? Absolutely! This strawberry meringue cake is perfect for parties, birthdays, or simply to impress guests at a summer dinner.

So, don’t hesitate to try this delicious strawberry meringue cake recipe. With every bite, you will enjoy the fresh flavor of summer, where each ingredient harmoniously blends to create an unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy!