Yogurt cake with strawberries and Port wine

Yogurt cake with strawberries and Port wine: a refined and delicious recipe for special moments

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Welcome to the sweet world of cakes! Today I will present a recipe that harmoniously combines creamy yogurt with the rich flavors of caramelized strawberries and the sophisticated notes of Port wine. This cake is not just a simple dessert; it is a culinary experience that will delight both the eyes and the taste buds. Let's get started!

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 280 g soft butter (at room temperature)
- 300 g sugar
- 5 eggs
- 300 g flour
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 natural yogurt (or fruit-flavored, according to preference)
- Zest of one orange
- Juice from one orange

For the caramelized strawberries:
- 3 large cups of strawberries, halved
- 7 tablespoons sugar
- Juice from one orange
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon + 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 large tablespoons of Port wine

Preparation steps:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at room temperature. This is important for achieving a uniform consistency of the dough. The strawberries should be fresh and ripe to maximize flavor.

2. Beat the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the soft butter together with the sugar and orange zest. Use an electric mixer at medium speed to obtain a fluffy foam. This step is essential for creating a light cake.

3. Add the eggs: Separately, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add the yolks, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well after each addition.

4. Incorporate the flour and yeast: Sift the flour together with the yeast and gradually add it to the egg mixture. Gently mix with a spatula to avoid losing air. Then add half of the egg whites, mixing gently. Once combined, fold in the remaining egg whites.

5. Add the yogurt: Finally, fold in the yogurt and mix well, ensuring everything is homogenized. The consistency should be creamy and fluffy.

6. Prepare the caramelized strawberries: In a non-stick pan over medium heat, add the halved strawberries, sugar, ground cinnamon, and orange juice. Let them simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring gently to avoid crushing the strawberries. Then, add the Port wine and let it simmer for another 2 minutes. This delicious sauce will add a sophisticated note to the cake.

7. Prepare the pan: Line a round cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring it is well secured. Pour some of the caramelized strawberry mixture into the bottom of the pan.

8. Add the dough: Carefully pour the dough over the caramelized strawberries, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 30 minutes to allow the cake to rise properly.

10. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a plate. You can decorate with orange slices, some strawberries, and walnut halves for an attractive look. Don't forget to keep the remaining strawberry sauce to add on top of the cake before serving.

Serving suggestions: This cake is delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a vanilla sauce for a perfect contrast. Additionally, a glass of Port wine would magnificently complete this culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits: Yogurt adds a good source of protein and probiotics, which are excellent for digestion. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this cake not only a delicious dessert but also a healthier option.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of yogurt?
- Yes, you can use fruit-flavored yogurt or even Greek yogurt for a creamier consistency.

2. What other fruits can I use instead of strawberries?
- You can try peaches, raspberries, or even blueberries, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store the cake?
- The cake keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap, or in the fridge to stay fresh longer.

4. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
- Unfortunately, this recipe is not vegan, but it can be adapted using vegan butter, flax eggs, and plant-based yogurt.

5. What other desserts can it be paired with?
- This dessert pairs perfectly with a chocolate tart or a fruit mousse for a complete meal.

The experience of making this yogurt cake with strawberries and Port wine is as enjoyable as its final taste. I would like to share with you that each ingredient adds a personal touch, and each bite will transport you to a world of flavors and textures. Enjoy!