Yogurt and Strawberry Cake

Yogurt and Strawberry Cake - The Perfect Indulgence for Any Occasion

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

I suggest you treat yourself to a delicious cake, a true family favorite: the yogurt and strawberry cake. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to gatherings with friends, and is an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter sweet treat, yet full of flavors. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, this cake will surely impress anyone who tastes it!

A Bit of History

Over time, yogurt cream cakes have gained popularity due to their fine texture and refined taste. The combination of yogurt with fresh fruits is an old tradition that brings a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Using strawberries, this cake becomes a symbol of summer, invoking pleasant memories and unforgettable moments.

Ingredients

*For the sponge cake:*
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sunflower oil)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- A pinch of baking powder (about 1/2 teaspoon)

*For the yogurt cream:*
- 400 ml liquid cream
- 3 packets of gelatin (about 30 g)
- 1 strawberry yogurt (250 g)
- 4 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, to taste)
- 500 g fresh strawberries (diced)

*For decoration:*
- Whole strawberries (for decoration)
- Grated chocolate (optional, for extra flavor)

Step by Step - Preparing the Cake

1. Preparing the Sponge Cake
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a mixer until frothy, gradually adding the sugar. Continue mixing until you achieve a firm, glossy meringue.

2. In another bowl, add the yolks and oil, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the flour and baking powder, mixing with a spatula from top to bottom to avoid losing air in the mixture.

3. Add the beaten egg whites to the yolk mixture, being careful to incorporate them gently. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake.

4. Pour the mixture into a cake pan (preferably silicone) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let it cool.

2. Preparing the Yogurt Cream
While the cake cools, you can prepare the cream. In a bowl, mix the yogurt with the powdered sugar (if using) and the 400 g of diced strawberries. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

3. In a small container, soak the gelatin in 100 ml of cold water for 10 minutes. Then, heat the gelatin over low heat until completely dissolved, being careful not to boil it.

4. Whip the liquid cream until firm, then gently fold it into the yogurt and strawberry mixture. Finally, add the dissolved gelatin, mixing gently from top to bottom to maintain the air in the cream.

3. Assembling the Cake
In a deep pot, place the silicone mold. Pour half of the yogurt cream into the bottom of the mold, then cut the sponge cake in half and place one half over the cream in the pot. Continue with the remaining cream and, finally, place the other half of the sponge on top.

4. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight. This step will help the cake set well and achieve a perfect texture.

5. Decorating the Cake
Once the cake has cooled and set, carefully remove it from the mold. Decorate it with whole strawberries and grated chocolate for an elegant and appetizing appearance.

Serving Suggestions
The yogurt and strawberry cake is delicious served plain, but you can add a spoonful of chocolate sauce or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor. It pairs perfectly with a cup of green tea or fresh lemonade.

Practical Tips
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- You can replace strawberries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or peaches, to vary the flavors.
- If you want a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the yogurt cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use vegetarian gelatin?
Yes, gelatin can be replaced with agar-agar for a vegetarian option. Make sure to follow the specific preparation instructions.

- How long can the cake be kept?
The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it will be best if consumed within the first 24 hours.

- Can the cake be frozen?
While it is possible, the textures may change. If you decide to freeze it, it is recommended to thaw it slowly in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Benefits
This cake is not only a delight, but it also contains healthy ingredients. Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for the digestive system, and strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

In conclusion, the yogurt and strawberry cake is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to indulge in a tasty and easy-to-make dessert. I hope you enjoy every bite and create beautiful memories around this cake! Enjoy!