Fruit cake

Fruit cake is a classic dessert, full of freshness and flavor, that revives childhood memories and brings a smile to the faces of loved ones. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a gathering with friends to a festive meal, and is an excellent way to use seasonal fruits.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients

- 350 g flour (choose a high-quality flour for optimal results)
- 250 g sugar (you can adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the fruits)
- 100 ml oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but you can also use light-flavored olive oil)
- 200 ml milk (whole milk provides a richer taste, but skim milk can be used)
- 4 large eggs (make sure they are fresh for a more stable foam)
- Zest and juice of half a lemon (adds a note of freshness and acidity)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda or ammonia (to help the cake rise)
- 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 750 g fruits (you have the freedom to choose: sour cherries, cherries, plums, apricots, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, grapes, or apples)

A bit of history

Fruit cake is a dessert that has crossed generations, with each culture having variations and reinterpretations. This simple yet delicious recipe is based on a moist and fluffy batter that perfectly complements the juiciness and sweetness of the fruits. It is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can give rise to something truly special, making this dessert a popular choice in many households.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a homogeneous composition. Prepare a baking tray (approximately 30x20 cm), grease it with margarine, and dust it with flour.

2. Beating the yolks: In a large bowl, add the yolks, 100 g of sugar, a pinch of salt, lemon zest, and vanilla sugar. Using a mixer, beat these ingredients until they become a smooth and fluffy cream, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Adding the oil and milk: While continuing to mix, add the oil in a thin stream. Then, add the milk and mix well.

4. Incorporating the flour: Sift the flour along with the baking soda (or ammonia) into the yolk mixture. Mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until there are no lumps. The batter should be soft and easy to pour.

5. Preparing the egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the remaining sugar (150 g) and a teaspoon of lemon juice. Beat until you achieve a firm foam that holds well on the mixer blades.

6. Combining the mixtures: Carefully add the egg white foam over the flour mixture, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air in the composition. This will ensure a fluffy cake.

7. Adding the fruits: Coat the chosen fruits in breadcrumbs or semolina to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the batter. Then, add them to the batter and mix gently.

8. Baking: Pour the composition into the prepared tray, leveling the surface with a spatula. Place the tray in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for 30-40 minutes, without opening the oven door in the first 20 minutes, to allow the cake to rise properly.

9. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked (do the toothpick test to check if it is well baked), remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

Serving suggestions

Fruit cake is best served plain, but you can enhance it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. Additionally, a fruit sauce or a drizzle of honey can transform it into a special dessert.

Variations

You can experiment with different fruits, adapting the recipe to personal preferences. For example, for a citrus-flavored cake, add orange or grapefruit zest. Also, try combining fruits like peaches and raspberries for a complex and delicious taste.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes, frozen fruits can be used, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

2. What type of flour is best?
Cake flour or regular all-purpose flour are the most suitable. Avoid whole wheat flour, as it can change the texture of the cake.

3. How can I improve the appearance of the cake?
Once cooled, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant look.

Nutritional benefits

This cake is not only delicious but also full of nutrients, thanks to the fruit content. Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Additionally, eggs and milk provide protein, while the oil offers healthy fats.

Calories

A serving of fruit cake contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the type of fruits used and the amount of sugar added.

In conclusion, fruit cake is a versatile and easy-to-make dessert, perfect for celebrating beautiful moments with loved ones. Experiment with the ingredients and find your favorite combination! Enjoy!