Fruit cake

Fruit cake is a dessert that combines the natural flavor of fresh fruits with the fluffy texture and delicious aromas of vanilla and butter. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for preparation at any time of the year, adding a touch of freshness and sweetness to any meal. Whether you enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or serve it as a dessert at a gathering with friends, this cake is sure to become a favorite among loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 4 eggs
- 120 g butter (preferably unsalted, but salted butter can also be used for a more intense flavor)
- 170 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to the sweetness of the fruits)
- 230 g flour (white wheat flour is ideal, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 10 g baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 2 nectarines (for a fresh and aromatic taste)
- 2 bananas (which provide moisture and sweetness)
- 1 apple (for a crunchy texture and flavor contrast)
- 5-6 plums (which add a tangy note)

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier melting. The fruits should be ripe, but not overripe, to maintain texture.

2. Mixing the eggs: In a large bowl, crack the 4 eggs and add the sugar and vanilla essence. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture well until it becomes frothy and light yellow. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake.

3. Adding the butter: Melt the butter and let it cool slightly, then incorporate it into the egg mixture, stirring gently until well combined.

4. Sifting the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Sifting them not only removes any lumps but also introduces air into the flour, helping the cake to be fluffier. Add the flour mixture to the liquid mixture and stir with a spatula until combined.

5. Preparing the fruits: Peel the bananas and slice them. Peel and dice the apples, and quarter the plums. Cut the nectarines into small cubes. Drizzle the apples with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and keep their color beautiful.

6. Incorporating the fruits: Add all the fruits to the batter and gently mix with a spoon or spatula to distribute them evenly.

7. Preparing the baking pan: Grease a 24x24 cm pan with butter and line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. Pour the batter into the pan and level the surface with a spatula.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium temperature) and place the pan inside. Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test (insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done).

9. Cooling and serving: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can slice it and sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an attractive appearance.

Serving suggestions

This fruit cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delicious contrast. You can also enjoy it with a cup of fruit tea or a creamy cappuccino.

Nutritional information

One serving (approximately 100 g) of this cake contains about 250 calories, providing a mix of carbohydrates from natural sugars and flour, healthy fats from butter, and proteins from eggs. The fruits contribute important vitamins and fiber, supporting a balanced diet.

Possible variations

- If you want a simpler version, you can use just one type of fruit, such as apples or bananas.
- For an exotic touch, add some pieces of pineapple or mango.
- You can replace some of the flour with cocoa to create a chocolate and fruit cake.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes, frozen fruits can be used, but it is recommended to let them thaw and drain well to avoid adding water to the batter.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar by up to 30%, especially if you are using very sweet fruits.

3. Can the cake be stored?
Yes, the cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for later consumption.

If you've made it this far, thank you for choosing to prepare this delicious fruit cake. Every bite is an explosion of flavors and joys! Experiment, adapt the recipe to your preferences, and feel free to share it with loved ones. Enjoy!