Fruit cake

The dessert we propose today is an easy-to-make delicacy, with enticing flavors and a soft texture, perfect for moments when we want to indulge in something sweet yet healthy. This banana and berry cake is an ideal choice for warm days or can be enjoyed as a comforting dessert on cool evenings. Moreover, it is a vegan recipe that can be adapted based on the fruits you have on hand.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas (approximately 520 g)
- 225 g sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 200 ml oil (preferably sunflower or rapeseed oil)
- 200 ml soy drink (or soy milk, according to preference)
- 1 vanilla essence
- 1 baking powder (or saffron baking powder for an extra color and flavor)
- 450 g flour
- 400 g fruits (blackberries, sour cherries, red currants, or other seasonal fruits)

A bit of history:
Banana and berry cake is a popular dessert often used to make the most of ripe fruits left in the kitchen. This recipe can be adapted according to the season, and the combinations of fruits are endless. Its history is tied to the tradition of not wasting food, creating delicious desserts from simple ingredients accessible to everyone.

Step by step:
1. Mash the bananas: Start by peeling the bananas and mashing them in a large bowl until you get a smooth puree. It is ideal for the bananas to be as ripe as possible, as they will add natural sweetness to the dish.

2. Add the wet ingredients: In the bowl with the banana puree, add the sugar and vanilla sugar. Mix well, then gradually add the oil, just like when making mayonnaise. Continue mixing to achieve a homogeneous composition.

3. Incorporate the soy drink: Pour the soy drink and vanilla essence into the banana mixture and mix well. This ingredient not only makes the cake moister but also gives it a subtle nutty flavor.

4. Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder (or saffron baking powder if you want a special note of flavor and color). Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the baking powder.

5. Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, gently mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until there are no traces of flour. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake fluffy.

6. Prepare the baking tray: Prepare a baking tray (40x26 cm) and grease it with a little oil or line it with baking paper to prevent sticking.

7. Add the mixture to the tray: Pour the mixture into the tray, spreading it evenly. Then, add the fruits on top of the mixture. You can use fresh or frozen fruits, depending on your preference. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, sprinkle a little brown sugar over the fruits.

8. Bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 180 °C and place the tray inside. Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until it passes the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

9. Cooling and serving: Allow the cake to cool in the tray, then cut it into servings. You can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance, especially if the fruits are a bit tart.

Serving suggestions:
This cake is delicious served plain, but you can pair it with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for a decadent dessert. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect snack for a relaxing afternoon.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Each serving of cake contains approximately 200 calories, depending on the type of fruits used. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium and vitamins, while berries provide antioxidants and essential vitamins. The oil used contributes to the soft texture of the cake, and the soy drink offers a balanced supply of plant-based proteins.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits?
Of course! You can experiment with any seasonal fruits: apples, pears, peaches, or even citrus fruits. Each variation will give a different taste to the cake.

- How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar by 50 g and choose sweeter fruits to balance the flavor.

- Can it be stored?
Yes! Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for 5-7 days.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start your culinary adventure! This banana and berry cake will surely become a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy every bite and cherish every moment spent in the kitchen!