Upside-down cherry cake

Upside Down Cherry Cake - A Quick and Tasty Dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Who doesn't love the sweet and juicy aroma of cherries, especially when combined with a fluffy and easy-to-make cake? Upside down cherry cake is a quick and simple dessert, perfect for moments when you want to impress family or friends without much effort. This recipe not only adds a splash of color to your plate but is also an excellent way to use fresh, seasonal cherries.

A Brief Story of the Recipe

Upside down cherry cake has deep roots in culinary traditions, being an ingenious way to combine seasonal fruits with a light and fluffy batter. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, adapted and reinterpreted by each cook. Its history suggests that by flipping the cake, the juiciness of the fruits is preserved, and the final appearance becomes particularly attractive.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 kg fresh cherries, washed and pitted
- 5 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 3 tablespoons water
- 10 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 150 ml whipped cream (for decoration)
- Vanilla essence (to taste)
- A pinch of salt

Step 1: Preparing the Cherries

Start by washing the cherries with cold water. It is essential to choose ripe but firm cherries to achieve a cake with the perfect texture. After washing, cut them in half and remove the pits. Ensure that the cherries are dry before placing them in the pan to avoid excess moisture.

Step 2: Preparing the Cake Batter

1. In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and beat them with an electric mixer until they double in volume and become stiff peaks.
2. In another bowl, beat the yolks with the sugar until they become a light and fluffy cream. This step is crucial for achieving an airy cake.
3. Add the oil and water to the yolk mixture, mixing well. Then incorporate the lemon zest, which will add a fresh and vibrant flavor.
4. Sift the flour together with the baking powder and fold them into the mixture. Mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is homogeneous.
5. Finally, add the beaten egg whites, carefully folding them in with gentle up-and-down movements. This step is crucial for keeping the air in the egg whites, ensuring a fluffy texture.

Step 3: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a baking pan (approximately 30x20 cm) lined with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the cherries at the bottom of the pan, distributing them evenly. This will be the top of your cake.
3. Pour the batter over the cherries, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
4. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until it passes the toothpick test. The toothpick should come out clean from the center of the cake.

Step 4: Cooling and Decorating the Cake

Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a platter. At this stage, the cherries will be visible on top, creating an attractive visual effect. Allow the cake to cool completely.

To add a touch of elegance, whip the cream until it is firm and add vanilla essence to taste. Use the whipped cream to decorate the cake as desired, either with a dollop on each serving or by covering the entire cake.

Serving Suggestions

Upside down cherry cake can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. Add a touch of refinement by sprinkling toasted almond flakes or nuts on top. It pairs perfectly with a cup of fruit tea or coffee, making it the ideal dessert for a relaxing afternoon.

Nutritional Benefits

Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and A, and essential minerals, making this cake not only a treat but also a somewhat healthier option. Flour, eggs, and oil provide proteins and healthy fats, and sugar can be replaced with natural sweeteners to reduce caloric content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?
Yes, this recipe is versatile. You can use peaches, plums, or blueberries, but ensure the fruits are ripe and juicy.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter or opt for a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup.

3. What can I do with leftover cake?
The cake keeps well in the fridge for a few days. You can use it as a base for a parfait with yogurt and fresh fruits.

4. How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?
Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can provide a unique taste. You can also experiment with various essences, such as almond or orange.

This upside down cherry cake is not only a quick and simple dessert but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of joy to every meal. I invite you to try this recipe and let your creativity shine in the kitchen! Enjoy!