Cherry cake
The dessert I propose today is a cherry cake, a delight that brings back memories of sunny childhood days. This fluffy cake, with a hint of vanilla and a slightly tart note from the cherries, is perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Here’s how you can prepare this quick and delicious dessert, which is sure to become a family favorite!
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10
Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g flour type 000
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 2 large eggs
- 250 ml lukewarm milk
- 150 g sugar
- a pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla essence
- 300 g pitted cherries
- powdered vanilla sugar for decoration
The history of cherry cake
Cherry cake is a traditional dessert, appreciated in many cultures for its delicious combination of flavors and textures. The cherries, with their tart taste, perfectly complement the sweetness of the fluffy dough, creating a balanced tasting experience. This cake is not just a dessert; it is also a memory of childhood, evoking moments spent with family, when sweets were made with love and patience.
Step-by-step preparation
1. Preparing the yeast: Start by dissolving the fresh yeast. In a small bowl, add 1 tablespoon of sugar over the crumbled yeast and pour in 100 ml of lukewarm milk. Mix gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to do its job.
2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the eggs, the activated yeast, and the remaining milk. Start mixing with a spatula or your hands. Finally, add the salt, 75 g of sugar, and the vanilla essence. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you feel the dough is too stiff, don’t hesitate to add a little milk until you achieve a soft and pleasant consistency.
3. Letting it rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for 5-10 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake, so don’t skip it!
4. Preparing the filling: While the dough is rising, you can prepare the cherries. If using fresh cherries, make sure to remove the pits. If using frozen cherries, let them thaw and drain excess water.
5. Forming the cake: Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Grease a baking pan with a little oil to prevent the cake from sticking. On a well-floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet about 1 cm thick. On one side of the sheet, place the cherries and sprinkle sugar over them.
6. Rolling the dough: Carefully roll the dough over the cherries, forming a log. Continue adding cherries and sugar until you reach the end of the dough, ensuring each layer is well wrapped. Once you’re done, place the cake in the prepared pan.
7. Baking: Sprinkle powdered vanilla sugar on top of the cake and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the cake turns golden and beautifully browned.
8. Cooling and serving: After the cake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Cover the cake with a clean towel until it cools completely to retain moisture. Before serving, sprinkle again with powdered sugar for an attractive look.
Useful tips
- For an extra flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon juice over your cherries. The acidity will enhance the taste and provide a pleasant contrast.
- If you prefer, instead of cherries, you can use other seasonal fruits such as cherries, plums, or peaches. Each variation will bring a unique touch to your dessert.
- The cake keeps well in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can gently reheat it in the oven to restore its fluffy texture.
Nutritional benefits
This cherry cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, having anti-inflammatory properties and being beneficial for heart health. Additionally, the sugar content is moderate, making this cake a healthier choice than many other desserts.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use 7 g of dry yeast and add it directly to the flour.
- How can I tell when the cake is done?
The cake is done when it turns golden, and when you gently tap it with your finger, it quickly returns to its original shape.
- What can I serve with cherry cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream. Additionally, a caramel or chocolate sauce can add an extra layer of flavor.
I hope you enjoyed this cherry cake recipe! Every bite will bring a smile to your face, and its aroma will fill your home with nostalgia. Enjoy!
Ingredients: 500 g flour 000 25 g fresh yeast 2 eggs 250 ml warm milk 150 g sugar a pinch of salt 1 tablespoon vanilla essence 300 g pitted cherries vanilla powdered sugar
