Yogurt and peach cake

Yogurt and Peach Cake - A Refreshing and Aromatic Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Who doesn’t love a dessert that combines the creamy texture of yogurt with the juicy sweetness of peaches? This yogurt and peach cake is an excellent choice for hot summer days, as well as for moments when you want to impress your guests with an elegant and light dessert. Besides being delicious, this recipe is also simple, using accessible ingredients and cooking techniques that do not require advanced skills.

History of Yogurt and Peach Cake

Yogurt cakes have a long-standing tradition in the kitchen, appreciated for their fine texture and creamy filling. Yogurt adds not only a delicious taste but also a note of freshness. Peaches, with their sweet aroma and distinctive juiciness, perfectly complement this dessert, turning it into a true indulgence. This recipe is ideal for serving on any occasion, from festive meals to summer parties.

Necessary Ingredients

*For the yogurt cream:*
- 370 g natural yogurt at room temperature
- 6 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 15 g gelatin
- 300 ml whipping cream (preferably with a fat content of 30% for a fluffy texture)

*For assembly:*
- 350 g ladyfingers
- 500 g peaches (fresh or canned, halved)

*For the syrup:*
- 200 ml water
- 100 g sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla (or 1-2 drops of vanilla extract)

Step by Step - How to Prepare Yogurt and Peach Cake

*1. Prepare the syrup:*
In a small saucepan, combine the water with the sugar and vanilla. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Once the syrup begins to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

*2. Prepare the yogurt cream:*
Hydrate the gelatin: place the gelatin in 3 tablespoons of cold water and let it sit for 10 minutes. After it swells, dissolve the gelatin in a double boiler or microwave (make sure it does not boil).

In a large bowl, mix the yogurt with the powdered sugar until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Quickly add the dissolved gelatin and mix well to prevent lumps from forming.

*3. Incorporate the whipped cream:*
Whip the 300 ml of cream until it becomes firm, but not overly so, to keep it fluffy. Gradually fold the whipped cream into the yogurt mixture, stirring gently with a spatula to avoid losing air from the cream.

*4. Assemble the cake:*
Prepare a loaf pan by lining it with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Start by placing a layer of ladyfingers soaked in the cooled syrup, covering the bottom of the pan well.

Add half of the yogurt cream and evenly place the peach halves over it. Continue with another layer of ladyfingers, the remaining cream, and finally, a last layer of ladyfingers soaked in syrup.

*5. Cooling:*
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight to set well.

*6. Decoration:*
Once the cake has cooled, carefully invert it onto a serving platter. Whip the remaining 100 ml of cream and use it to decorate the cake. You can create waves or decorate with fresh peach slices for an attractive appearance.

Tips and Practical Advice

- Make sure the yogurt is at room temperature for better mixing with the other ingredients.
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, to vary the recipe.
- If using canned peaches, drain them well before adding to avoid excess water.
- The gelatin must be completely dissolved; otherwise, it will form lumps in your cream.
- The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but is best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional Benefits

The yogurt and peach cake provides a good source of protein from the yogurt and cream, as well as vitamins and minerals from the peaches, including vitamin C and fiber. It is a healthier dessert option than many others, with a moderate sugar content due to the use of natural sweetener in the syrup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt will provide a denser texture and richer flavor.

2. Is gelatin necessary for this recipe?
Gelatin is essential to give the cake a firm structure. If you prefer a vegan option, you can use agar-agar.

3. How can I adapt the recipe to be lactose-free?
Use lactose-free yogurt and cream, available in most supermarkets.

Serving Suggestions

The yogurt and peach cake can be served plain, but for an extra touch of flavor, you can add a caramel sauce or a peach puree on the plate. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside will transform the dessert into a truly special treat.

In conclusion, this yogurt and peach cake is not just a dessert but a culinary experience that combines natural flavors and fine texture. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent around the table with loved ones!