Cheese and strawberry cake

The strawberry and cheese cake is a dessert that combines the fluffy texture of sponge cake with the velvety cream cheese and the sweetness of strawberries. It is an easy recipe to prepare, perfect for warm summer days or to add a splash of color to any occasion. This cake not only delights the eye but also the taste buds, making it a favorite among those who love delicate combinations.

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

Ingredients for the sponge cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of flour
- 6 white cookies, crushed into powder
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 50 ml water
- 50 ml oil
- 1 vial of vanilla
- 1 sachet of bourbon vanilla

Ingredients for the cream cheese:
- 1 box of mascarpone cheese (approx. 250 g)
- 2 egg yolks
- 4 sachets of vanilla sugar
- 40 g butter/margarine at room temperature
- 100 g fresh cow cheese
- 1 essence of vanilla

Ingredients for decoration:
- 1 packet of red gelatin
- 200 g fresh strawberries, frozen or from jam

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the sponge cake:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you get a frothy and light-colored mixture. This step is essential to allow the cake to become fluffy. Add the baking powder and mix well.

In another bowl, combine the flour with the crushed cookies. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the egg composition, mixing with a spatula so as not to lose the air in the mixture. Add the water, oil, and vanilla flavors, continuing to mix gently.

Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for about 30 minutes or until the cake is elastic to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the tray.

2. Preparing the cream cheese:
In a plastic bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese with the egg yolks, vanilla sugar, butter, and fresh cow cheese. Use a mixer to obtain a smooth and fine cream. Add the vanilla essence and mix again. It is important that all ingredients are at room temperature for easy blending.

3. Assembling the cake:
After the cake has cooled, cut it into squares or leave it whole, depending on your preference. Spread the cream cheese evenly over the surface of the cake, ensuring it reaches all corners. Cover the cream with strawberries cut into pieces or whole, according to preference.

4. Finishing with gelatin:
Prepare the gelatin according to the instructions on the package. Usually, this involves dissolving the gelatin in hot water and then letting it cool slightly. Pour the gelatin over the strawberries, making sure to cover them evenly. This layer will give a shiny and appetizing look to the cake.

5. Cooling and serving:
Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for the gelatin to set and the flavors to combine. Serve the cake cold, cut into generous portions.

Helpful tip:
If you want to add extra flavor, try drizzling the strawberries with a little lemon juice or mixing them with sugar before placing them on the cake. You can also use other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, to add a contrast of colors and flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
Mascarpone cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, while strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. This cake is not only delicious but also a healthier option due to the fresh ingredients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use cow cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes, but the result will be less creamy. You can adjust the amount of sugar to compensate.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.

3. Can I use vegetable gelatin?
Yes, vegetable gelatin is an excellent alternative to achieve the same effect.

Serving suggestions:
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cold fruit tea or fresh lemonade. A personal improvement would be to add a tablespoon of caramel sauce on top for a sweet-salty contrast.

So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious cake that not only looks splendid but also delights the taste buds. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the Cream: 1 box of mascarpone cheese, 2 egg yolks, 4 packets of vanilla sugar, 40 g of butter/margarine, 100 g of fresh cow cheese, 1 vanilla essence. Decoration: 1 packet of red gelatin and 200 g of fresh, frozen, or jam strawberries. For the sponge cake: 4 eggs, 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of flour, 6 crushed white biscuits until powdered, 1 packet of baking powder, 50 ml of water, 50 ml of oil, 1 vial of vanilla and 1 packet of bourbon vanilla.