Sweet cheese and meringue cake

Sweet cheese and meringue cake - A sweet delicacy for the soul

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

When it comes to cakes, the combination of sweet cheese and meringue is one of the most beloved. This sweet cheese and meringue cake recipe is not only simple but also brings a feeling of warmth and comfort. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, I assure you that the result will be worth all the effort.

A brief history of the sweet cheese cake

The sweet cheese cake was created out of a desire to combine simple ingredients into a delicious recipe. This cake has evolved over time, becoming a favorite in many cultures. The meringue adds a light and crunchy layer, contrasting with the rich sweet cheese filling, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

Necessary ingredients

*For the base:*

- 5 eggs (at room temperature)
- 30 ml cold water (helps achieve a fluffier texture)
- 120 g sugar (for sweetness and moisture)
- 150 g flour (fine grains for an airy texture)
- 1/2 packet baking powder (to make the base rise)
- a pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

*For the filling:*

- 300 g sweet cheese (choose a quality cheese with low fat content)
- 50 g semolina (to give consistency)
- 80 g sugar (adjustable according to preferences)
- grated zest of one lemon (for an extra flavor)
- 3 egg yolks (for the richness of the filling)

*For decoration:*

- 3 egg whites (whipped)
- 120 g sugar (for meringue)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (helps stabilize the meringue)

Steps for a perfect result

1. Preparing the base
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with the sugar and cold water. Use an electric mixer on high speed until you achieve a firm foam.
In another bowl, beat the yolks with a pinch of salt until they become a homogeneous mixture. When the egg whites are ready, carefully add them to the yolk mixture, gently folding with a spatula.
Gradually add the flour mixed with baking powder, gently folding until combined. Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes, or until the base springs back when pressed.

2. Preparing the filling
While the base is baking, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the sweet cheese, semolina, sugar, lemon zest, and the 3 egg yolks. Use a spatula to achieve a uniform mixture. When the base is ready, remove it from the oven and pour the filling evenly over it. Leave it in the oven for another 5 minutes.

3. The meringue
In a clean bowl, beat the 3 egg whites with the mixer, gradually adding the sugar until you achieve a glossy meringue. Add the lemon juice and gently mix.

4. Finishing the cake
Remove the cake from the oven and invert it onto a piece of parchment paper, so the filling is on top. Carefully remove the paper from the filling and use a piping bag to form the meringue on top.
Put the cake back in the oven and leave it for 10 minutes, until the meringue turns slightly golden.

5. Cooling and serving
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. You can serve it plain or with a berry sauce for a contrast of flavors.

Useful tips

- Choosing the cheese: Use a quality sweet cheese, such as ricotta or cottage cheese, to achieve a creamy filling.
- Meringue consistency: Ensure that the bowl and utensils are completely clean and dry before beating the egg whites; otherwise, the meringue will not set.
- Customization: You can add vanilla or almond extract to the cheese filling for an extra flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This cake has approximately 250 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Sweet cheese provides valuable proteins, and the eggs contribute to the intake of vitamins and minerals. It is also a source of calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use soy cheese?
Yes, for a vegan option, you can use soy cheese instead of sweet cheese.

- How can I store the cake?
Keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, to keep it fresh.

Delicious combinations

This cake pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or a flavored coffee. You can also enhance it with a caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try it at home and enjoy a slice of sweet cheese and meringue cake, full of flavor and warmth!