Berry cake with meringue

The berry meringue cake is a dessert that delights not only with its attractive appearance but also with the delicious combination of textures and flavors. With a fluffy base enriched by fresh berries and a delicate meringue, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a festive meal or a simple gathering with friends.

Before we get started, let's talk a bit about the main ingredients and their benefits. Berries, such as raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries, are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They not only add flavor but also contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

Base (for a round pan with a diameter of 28 cm)
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons oil
- 5 heaping tablespoons flour
- A pinch of salt
- Zest of one lemon
- 200 g berries (fresh or frozen)

Meringue
- 5 egg whites
- 8 tablespoons powdered sugar
- One tablespoon lemon juice
- One packet of vanilla sugar
- One heaping tablespoon cornstarch
- A pinch of salt

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the base
1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowl in which you will beat the egg whites is clean and dry to achieve a perfect foam.
2. Beating the egg whites: In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a foam. It is important to use a quality mixer to achieve an airy consistency.
3. Adding the sugar: Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to mix until the sugar is completely dissolved. The mixture should be firm and glossy.
4. Preparing the yolks: In another bowl, beat the yolks with the oil and lemon zest until the mixture becomes homogeneous and creamy.
5. Combining the ingredients: Add the yolk mixture to the beaten egg whites, gently folding with a spatula. Then, add the flour, incorporating it gently to avoid losing air from the mixture.
6. Transferring to the pan: Pour the mixture into the greased and lined baking pan. Scatter the berries evenly on top.

Step 2: Baking the base
1. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and place the pan in the oven, allowing it to bake for 15 minutes. It is important not to open the oven during this time, as it may affect the baking process.

Step 3: Preparing the meringue
1. Beating the egg whites: In a tall bowl, beat the 5 egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a foam.
2. Adding the powdered sugar: Start adding the powdered sugar (including the vanilla sugar) in 2-3 batches, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes very stiff.
3. Including the lemon juice and cornstarch: Finally, add the lemon juice and cornstarch, mixing gently until well combined.

Step 4: Finalizing the baking
1. Adding the meringue: After 15 minutes of baking the base, remove the pan from the oven and place the meringue on top, using a spoon or piping bag to create nicer shapes.
2. Baking the meringue: Place the pan back in the oven on low heat, leaving the door slightly ajar for 20-30 minutes, until the meringue is firm and lightly browned.

Step 5: Serving
1. Cooling and cutting: Once the cake has cooled, use a knife dipped in cold water to cut the portions, so the meringue doesn’t stick.
2. Serving suggestions: You can serve the cake with a vanilla sauce or vanilla ice cream to add a decadent touch. A fruit tea or a sweet white wine pairs wonderfully with this delicious cake.

Practical tips
- Ingredients: Use fresh eggs for a more stable meringue. If you want to save time, you can use frozen berries, but make sure to let them thaw before adding them to the base.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute the flour with almond flour or coconut flour to create a gluten-free version.
- Frequently asked questions: Can the cake be made with other fruits? Absolutely! You can experiment with peaches, apricots, or apples for a flavorful and fresh cake.

Nutritional benefits
This cake is a good source of vitamins and antioxidants due to the berries, and the eggs provide essential proteins. However, it is worth noting that, due to its sugar content, it is best consumed in moderation, especially if you are on a diet.

Conclusion
The berry meringue cake is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Whether you choose to make it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, each bite will be a delight. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and tell them about your little tricks for achieving a perfect result. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Base (for a round mold with a diameter of 28 cm) - 5 eggs - 5 tablespoons sugar - 5 tablespoons oil - 5 heaping tablespoons of flour - a pinch of salt - grated zest of one lemon - 200 g mixed berries. Meringue: - 5 egg whites - 8 tablespoons powdered sugar - one tablespoon lemon juice - one vanilla sugar - one tablespoon cornstarch - a pinch of salt.