Strawberry cake

Strawberry cake is a dessert that combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with an airy texture and a refreshing cream, perfect for hot summer days. This recipe is not only simple but also offers an explosion of flavors that will delight both adults and children. I invite you to discover the detailed steps to create this delicacy that will surely become a family favorite.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Cooling time: 1 hour
- Total: 2 hours
- Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 5 large eggs
- 200 g sugar
- 100 ml sunflower oil (or another neutral oil)
- 100 ml milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 packet baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- 180 g flour
- 1 packet vanilla pudding (approximately 40 g)

For the cream:
- 600 g strawberry yogurt
- 400 g fresh strawberries
- 200 ml whipped cream
- 12 sheets of gelatin
- 120 g sugar

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the base
1. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, crack the 5 eggs and add the 200 g of sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the eggs on high speed until the mixture becomes frothy and doubles in volume. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy base.

2. Add the wet ingredients: Gradually incorporate the oil and milk, continuing to mix on low speed. Add the lemon zest for an extra flavor boost.

3. Combine the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and vanilla pudding. Sift these ingredients to aerate them and prevent lumps from forming.

4. Combine the mixtures: Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture and gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until everything is well combined.

5. Bake the base: Pour the mixture into a baking pan lined with parchment paper (approximately 30x20 cm) and place in the preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes or until the base is golden and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick in the center of the base; if it comes out clean, the base is done).

Step 2: Preparing the cream
1. Prepare the strawberries: Wash the strawberries well and place them on a kitchen towel to drain. Cut them into small pieces and puree them with a blender, leaving a few for decoration.

2. Mix the yogurt with the strawberries: In a bowl, combine the strawberry yogurt with the pureed strawberries and mix well.

3. Whip the cream: In another bowl, whip the cream with the 120 g of sugar until you achieve a firm texture. It’s important not to over-whip it, so it doesn’t turn into butter.

4. Prepare the gelatin: Soak the 12 sheets of gelatin in cold water for 10 minutes. Once softened, drain them and melt them in a double boiler, adding a small amount of the strawberry mixture to help them dissolve.

5. Combine all ingredients: Once the gelatin has melted, mix it with the remaining pureed strawberries. Fold the whipped cream into the yogurt and strawberry mixture, gently mixing to avoid losing the air from the cream.

6. Chill the cream: Place the obtained cream in the refrigerator for about an hour to set.

Step 3: Assembling the cake
1. Cutting the base: Once the base has completely cooled, cut it into two equal halves.

2. Assembling the cake: Place one half of the base back in the pan it was baked in. Pour half of the strawberry cream over the base in the pan.

3. Place the second half: Put the other half of the base on top, then add the remaining cream. You can decorate with fresh strawberries on top for an attractive look.

4. Final chill: Leave the cake in the refrigerator for a few hours or, ideally, overnight to set completely.

Serving
The strawberry cake is perfect served cold, alongside iced tea or fruit juice. A slice of cake can be garnished with fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a pleasant contrast.

Helpful tips
- Vegan option: You can replace the eggs with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. Use plant-based yogurt and plant-based whipped cream to adapt the recipe.
- Gluten-free dessert: Replace regular flour with almond flour or rice flour to make a gluten-free cake.
- Flavor variations: Instead of strawberries, you can use other seasonal fruits like raspberries or peaches to add a twist to the recipe.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This cake is a healthier option for dessert, thanks to the yogurt and fruit content. One serving (approximately 100 g) has about 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, positively impacting immune health and digestion.

Frequently asked questions
- Can frozen strawberries be used? Yes, but make sure to let them thaw and drain well before using.
- Can I add other fruits to the mixture? Absolutely! Mix strawberries with blueberries or blackberries for a flavor explosion.
- How can I tell if the cake is done? Use the toothpick test; if it comes out clean, the base is ready.

With this strawberry cake recipe, you will not only create a delicious dessert but also unforgettable moments around the table with family and friends. Happy cooking!

 Ingredients: Base: 5 eggs, 200g sugar, 100ml oil, 100ml milk, zest of 1 lemon, 1 packet of baking powder, 180g flour, 1 vanilla pudding. Cream: 600g strawberry yogurt, 400g strawberries, 200ml whipped cream, 12 sheets of gelatin, 120g sugar.

 Tags:  strawberries whipped cream