Cherry Cake

The cherry dessert is an excellent choice during the summer when these delicious fruits are at their peak flavor. This moist and aromatic cake perfectly combines the sweetness of cherries with a fluffy texture, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. I invite you to embark on a cooking adventure with me and create this cherry cake, which is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the batter:
- 2 large eggs (choose fresh eggs for better taste)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar (approximately 200g)
- 1 cup of oil (preferably sunflower or canola)
- 1 cup of milk (can also be plant-based milk for a lactose-free version)
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour (filled to the brim, approx. 250g each)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (approximately 10g)
- 1 tablespoon of cherry liqueur (for an extra flavor boost)
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder (to create a contrast in color and taste)

For the filling:
- 1 kg of cherries (pitted, fresh or frozen)
- 8 tablespoons of sugar (approximately 100g, adjustable to taste)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the cherries: Start by washing the cherries thoroughly under cold running water. Carefully remove the pits using a special tool or simply with your hands. Place the cherries in a bowl and add the sugar. Gently mix them and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to release their juice.

2. Preparing the batter: In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar until you obtain a fluffy and light mixture. This step is important as the air incorporated will help the cake to be fluffier.

3. Adding the liquid ingredients: While continuing to mix, gradually add the oil, then the milk and cherry liqueur. Mix well until the ingredients are completely combined.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Sifting the flour is a trick that helps aerate it, resulting in a lighter batter. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, gently mixing with a spatula using an up-and-down motion to avoid deflating the batter.

5. Dividing the batter: Divide the batter into two equal parts. In one part, incorporate the cocoa powder, mixing well to achieve an even composition.

6. Assembling the cake: Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. Pour the cocoa mixture into the tray first, ensuring it spreads evenly. Then, add the yellow mixture on top.

7. Adding the cherries: Drain the cherries to remove excess juice and arrange them evenly on top of the batter. They will add a pleasant moisture to the cake.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Bake the cake for about 40 minutes. Check if it's done by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

9. Preparing the syrup: While the cake is baking, you can prepare the syrup. Place the juice released by the cherries in a small saucepan and simmer over low heat, adding the remaining sugar until it thickens and becomes a consistent syrup. This will intensify the cherry flavor and provide a delicious topping.

10. Finishing the cake: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and, while still warm, cut it into pieces in the baking tray. Pour the cherry syrup over the warm cake, allowing it to absorb well.

11. Cooling and serving: Let the cake cool in the tray, then you can transfer it to a serving platter. It is delicious both warm and after it has cooled completely. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sweet cream for a perfect contrast.

Tips and Tricks

- If you don't have fresh cherries, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to let them thaw and drain well before using.
- For a gluten-free version, you can replace the all-purpose flour with almond or rice flour, but keep in mind that the texture will change.
- This cake pairs excellently with a flavored coffee or a fruit tea, making it an ideal dessert for a gathering with friends.

Nutritional Benefits

Cherries are not only delicious but also very healthy! These fruits are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and A, and have anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion. This dessert, while sweet, can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits?
Of course! The cake can also be made with other seasonal fruits like cherries, peaches, or plums.

How can I store it?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3-4 days.

Is it suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians as it does not contain any animal-derived ingredients except for eggs.

Cooking is an art, and each recipe tells a story. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every step of this culinary adventure. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: Dough: 2 eggs, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup oil, 1 cup milk, 2 cups flour (filled to the brim), 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon cherry liqueur, 2 tablespoons cocoa. Filling: 1kg cherries, 8 tablespoons sugar.

 Tags:  sour cherries cherry cake