Cherry cake

Soft seasonal fruit cake

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

At the heart of every kitchen lies a recipe for cake that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones. This soft seasonal fruit cake recipe, especially with cherries, is not only delicious but also full of nostalgia and warmth. It is a perfect dessert for any occasion, from relaxing brunches to family gatherings. Moreover, its preparation is so simple that even beginner cooks will feel like true masters.

Ingredients

- 16 tablespoons of sugar
- Water (approximately 200 ml, enough to moisten the sugar)
- 8 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 8 tablespoons of oil
- Vanilla essence (to taste)
- Flour (approximately 600 g, enough to achieve the right consistency)
- A packet of baking powder
- 620 g of pitted cherries

The little story of the recipe

The cake has a rich history, being a popular choice in many cultures. This type of dessert has evolved over the years, drawing from various cooking traditions. This soft seasonal fruit cake is a wonderful way to celebrate the fruits of nature, transforming them into something even more special. Cherries, with their sweetness and acidity, add a vibrant and fresh note to this dessert, and the combination with vanilla and oil makes it incredibly fluffy.

Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the sugar syrup: In a small pot, add 16 tablespoons of sugar and enough water (approximately 200 ml) to moisten the sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. This will create a syrup that will add moisture and sweetness to the cake. Once the sugar has melted, let the syrup cool while you continue with the rest of the recipe.

2. Preheating the oven: Set the oven to 180°C (350°F) to warm up well before placing the cake in.

3. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the bowls are clean and dry to achieve a stable foam.

4. Beating the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. This step is crucial for obtaining a fluffy cake.

5. Adding the syrup: Once the egg whites are beaten, gradually add the cooled sugar syrup, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes glossy and fluffy.

6. Incorporating the yolks: Add the yolks, oil, and vanilla essence. Gently fold with a spatula to incorporate them, being careful not to deflate the egg whites.

7. The flour and baking powder: Sift the flour and baking powder into the mixture, adding them gradually. Use a silicone spatula to gently fold from the bottom up until the batter becomes homogeneous. This method will help maintain the air in the mixture, resulting in a fluffier cake.

8. Incorporating the cherries: Add 2/3 of the pitted cherries to the batter and gently mix to distribute them evenly.

9. Preparing the pans: Grease two cake pans with oil and line them with parchment paper. This step will facilitate removing the cakes from the pan after baking.

10. Pouring the batter: Divide the batter evenly between the two pans, then place the remaining cherries on top of the batter for an attractive appearance.

11. Baking: Place the pans in the preheated oven and let them bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cakes are golden brown and pass the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done).

12. Cooling and serving: Once the cakes have beautifully browned, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pans. Then, remove them and let them cool completely on a wire rack. If desired, you can dust them with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of elegance.

Helpful tips

- For an even more aromatic cake, you can replace the vanilla essence with almond essence or add lemon or orange zest.
- Cherries can be replaced with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches, plums, or blueberries, to create a different version of this cake.
- If you prefer a moister cake, you can add a few tablespoons of yogurt or sour cream to the batter.

Nutritional benefits

This soft cherry cake is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and contribute to heart health. Additionally, the eggs provide high-quality protein, and the added oil helps maintain moisture.

Delicious combinations

This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm chocolate sauce. Also, a cup of tea or coffee will perfectly complement this dessert, turning it into a memorable experience.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can experiment with various seasonal fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, or even bananas.

2. How can I tell if the cake is done? Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

3. Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake. Make sure it is completely cooled before wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer.

4. How long does it keep? This cake keeps well when stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

In conclusion, this soft cherry cake is not only a delicious choice but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of joy to your kitchen. So, don't hesitate! Grab the necessary ingredients and start creating sweet memories with your loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 16 tablespoons of sugar; water - just enough to moisten the sugar (about 200 ml); 8 eggs; a pinch of salt; 8 tablespoons of oil; vanilla essence; flour as needed (600 g); one packet of baking powder; 620 g of pitted cherries.

 Tags:  cherry cake