Strawberry cake

Strawberry Cake - A Refreshing Delicacy for Summer Days

The strawberry season is approaching, and this white chocolate cake, with fine mascarpone cream and yogurt, adorned with fresh strawberries, is the perfect choice to celebrate the sun and warm days. This dessert is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. Ready to embark on an unforgettable culinary experience? Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 8 hours (including refrigeration time)
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For the base:
- 3 egg whites
- 75 g white chocolate
- 40 g butter
- 20 g sugar
- 65 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

For the cream:
- 250 g mascarpone
- 200 g cream cheese
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 400 g Greek yogurt (10% fat)
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 packet of gelatin granules
- Fresh strawberries (about 500 g)

For decoration:
- Additional fresh strawberries
- Vanilla cream (optional, if leftover from another cake)
- Cake Gelee (optional, for the shine of the strawberries)

Recipe History

Strawberry cake is an iconic summer dessert, often associated with celebrations and outdoor parties. Over time, strawberries have been used in various dishes, loved for their sweetness and distinctive aroma. Their combination with white chocolate and mascarpone cream adds a touch of elegance and refinement, transforming a simple cake into a culinary masterpiece.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the base
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Prepare a round cake pan by lining it with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, melt the white chocolate together with the butter in a double boiler or microwave, being careful not to burn it. Let the mixture cool slightly.

In another bowl, beat the egg whites with sugar and a pinch of salt until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue.

Gently fold the melted chocolate into the egg white mixture. Sift the flour together with the baking powder and fold them into the mixture, mixing gently to avoid deflating the batter.

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the base cool completely.

2. Preparing the cream
In a large bowl, whip the liquid cream until it becomes firm. Add the mascarpone, cream cheese, and powdered sugar, continuing to mix until well combined.

Prepare the gelatin according to the instructions on the packet (usually, it needs to be dissolved in cold water and then heated), then add it to the mascarpone cream, mixing gently.

3. Assembling the cake
Place the base on a serving platter. Use a removable ring, which you can wrap with plastic wrap to avoid leaks. Place the ring around the base.

Spread a thin layer of cream over the base, then place the halved strawberries, cut side against the ring. Continue to distribute the cream, being careful not to disturb the strawberries.

Cover with the remaining cream and smooth the surface. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but ideally overnight.

4. Decorating the cake
In the morning, carefully remove the removable ring. You can decorate the cake with fresh strawberries and, if you have, with any leftover vanilla cream. If you desire a glossy appearance, apply a bit of Cake Gelee on the strawberries.

Practical Tips

- Make sure the white chocolate is of good quality, as it will influence the taste of the cake.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries to maximize flavor.
- If you don't have liquid cream, you can use a plant-based alternative, though the texture will be different.
- The cake is perfect to be served with a glass of cold lemonade or fruit tea, adding a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

This strawberry cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them excellent for the immune system. Greek yogurt adds a boost of protein, while mascarpone and cream cheese add a creamy and indulgent note.

Possible Variations

- You can replace strawberries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to experiment with different flavors.
- If you want a more decadent cake, add a few drops of vanilla essence to the mascarpone cream.
- You can make a cocoa base for a contrast of colors and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate, but the cake will have a more intense and less sweet flavor.

2. What can I do if I don't have gelatin?
You can use another thickening agent, such as agar-agar, being careful to follow the instructions on the packaging to achieve the desired consistency.

3. How long can the cake be stored?
The cake can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

4. What drinks pair well with the cake?
Fresh lemonade, iced fruit tea, or even a dry white wine are excellent combinations to accompany this dessert.

This strawberry cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is an experience that brings joy and refreshment on hot summer days. Savor each slice and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones!

 Ingredients: Base: 3 egg whites, 75 g white chocolate, 40 g butter, 20 g sugar, 65 g flour, a pinch of baking powder, a pinch of salt. Cream: 250 g mascarpone, 200 g cream cheese, 200 ml liquid cream, 400 g Greek yogurt (10% fat), 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 packet of gelatin granules, fresh strawberries.