Yogurt and Cherry Cake

Yogurt and Cherry Cake - A Fluffy and Flavorful Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 8

Introduction

Today I will present you with a recipe for yogurt and cherry cake, a simple yet extremely tasty dessert. This combination of ingredients transforms an ordinary cake into a flavorful delicacy, perfect for any occasion. Inspired by the yogurt and strawberry cake recipe, this cherry variant adds a touch of freshness and a delicious taste. Ideal for serving with coffee with friends or as a dessert after a hearty meal, this cake will quickly become a family favorite.

Let's get to work!

Ingredients

- 300 g fresh cherries
- 2 small eggs
- 200 g flour
- 150 g Greek yogurt
- 130 g sugar
- 85 ml oil (preferably sunflower or canola oil)
- 1 teaspoon almond essence
- 1 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt

Ingredient Details

Cherries are the stars of this cake. Make sure to use fresh, ripe cherries, preferably organic, for an intense flavor. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and moisture, while almond essence provides a delicate and refined taste. The flour used is basic, but feel free to experiment with gluten-free alternatives if necessary.

Useful Tips

- Before you start, wash the cherries well and remove the pits. An easy method is to use a special pitter, or if you don't have one, you can use a fork to remove them manually.
- Sprinkle the cherries with 3 teaspoons of sugar to enhance their sweetness. Let them sit in this mixture while you prepare the batter, so they will release some of their natural juice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential to ensure even baking of the cake.

2. Preparing the cherries: After pitting the cherries, add the 3 teaspoons of sugar and gently mix. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Preparing the cake mixture: In a large bowl, mix the eggs with 130 g of sugar and almond essence using an electric mixer. Continue mixing until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. This is the moment when air is incorporated, giving the cake a light texture.

4. Adding the wet ingredients: Incorporate the yogurt and oil into the egg mixture, stirring constantly. Ensure there are no lumps.

5. Mixing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and a pinch of salt. This mixture will help the cake rise during baking.

6. Combining ingredients: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, gently folding with a spatula or wooden spoon. This step is important to be done gently to avoid developing the gluten in the flour, which could make the cake dense.

7. Preparing the pan: Line a loaf pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper and grease it with a little oil. This will prevent the cake from sticking.

8. Adding the batter to the pan: Pour half of the batter into the pan, then add the cherries, drained of excess juice, being careful not to let them settle at the bottom. This trick will help the cherries stay suspended in the cake. You can dust them with a little flour before adding them to help keep them afloat.

9. Finalizing the preparation: Pour the remaining batter over the cherries, leveling it gently. If desired, sprinkle some almond flakes on top for a crunchy texture and an appetizing appearance.

10. Baking the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Watch closely, as each oven bakes differently.

11. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust it with powdered sugar for a sweet and elegant touch.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This yogurt and cherry cake is extremely versatile. You can replace the cherries with other fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches, depending on your preferences. So feel free to experiment! Another interesting variant would be to add some chopped nuts or almonds to the batter for an extra crunch.

For an extra flavor boost, serve the cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with warm chocolate sauce. A cup of tea or coffee will perfectly complement this delicacy.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is a good source of protein and calcium due to the Greek yogurt. Cherries bring antioxidants and essential vitamins, such as vitamin C. Additionally, the added oil helps maintain moisture, and whole grain flour can be used to increase fiber intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt provides a richer texture. If using regular yogurt, make sure to slightly reduce the amount of liquids in the recipe.

2. What can I do if the cake sinks?
If your cake sinks, it may be due to overmixing or a lack of sufficient air in the mixture. Ensure you use room temperature ingredients and mix gently.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, this cake can be frozen. After it has cooled completely, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Now that you have learned all the details about this delicious yogurt and cherry cake recipe, all that's left is to get cooking! I assure you that you will have a dessert worthy of all the praise. Enjoy!