Strawberry cream cake
Strawberry Cream Cake - a Sweet and Elegant Delight
Who doesn’t love a fluffy cake, bursting with flavor and topped with decadent cream? Strawberry cream cake is a dessert that perfectly combines aesthetic appeal with divine taste, making it ideal for any occasion. This simple yet impressive recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s a perfect opportunity to use fresh strawberries, packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Let’s get started!
Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Necessary Ingredients
For the sponge:
- 5 fresh eggs
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
For the cream:
- 4 egg yolks
- 500 ml milk
- 1 kg fresh strawberries (or frozen, but fresh is ideal)
- 500 ml heavy cream
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 30 g gelatin
Step-by-step for preparing the strawberry cream cake
1. Preparing the sponge
The first step is to make the sponge, which will serve as the base for this delicious cake. In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. It’s important to incorporate air at this stage so that the sponge is light and airy.
Add the vanilla extract, then gently fold in the sifted flour and baking powder. Mix gently with a spatula to avoid losing the air in the mixture. Pour the batter into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake at a moderate temperature (about 180°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until firm to the touch and passes the toothpick test.
Helpful tip: You can check if the sponge is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the sponge is ready. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Preparing the cream
While the sponge is cooling, we can prepare the cream. In a small saucepan, mix the egg yolks with the sugar and add the milk. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream begins to thicken. Be careful not to let it boil, or it will curdle. Once the cream has thickened, let it cool to room temperature.
Meanwhile, soak the gelatin in cold water according to the package instructions. After it has bloomed, melt the gelatin over a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
Once the cream has cooled, add the melted gelatin and mix well. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it holds firm peaks, reserving a portion for decoration. Gently fold the remaining whipped cream into the custard, being careful not to deflate it. Finally, add the crushed strawberries, mixing delicately.
3. Assembling the cake
With the sponge completely cooled, pour the strawberry cream over it, spreading it evenly. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours, ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and help the cream set.
4. Decorating
After the cake has set, remove it from the refrigerator and decorate it with the reserved whipped cream and seasonal fruits, such as sliced strawberries or even raspberries. You can also add red gelatin for a more appealing look and an extra burst of flavor.
Practical tips
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a little lemon juice or grated lemon zest to the cream.
- If you want a lighter version, use plant-based whipped cream instead of dairy cream.
- Strawberries can be replaced with other fruits, such as peaches, blueberries, or mango, to create delicious variations of the recipe.
Nutritional benefits
Strawberries are extremely beneficial for health. They are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a strong immune system and improved cardiovascular health. Milk and cream provide calcium, protein, and healthy fats, making this cake not only delicious but also nutrient-rich.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the cream to avoid excess water.
- How can I store the cake?
Keep the cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.
- Can I make the cake without gelatin?
Gelatin is essential for achieving a firm and stable cream, but you can experiment with plant-based alternatives like agar-agar.
Ideal serving combinations
This cake pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or a light white wine. You can also serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or a refreshing drink like lemonade.
In conclusion, strawberry cream cake is not only a quick and easy dessert to make but also an opportunity to bring joy and flavor into your life. So gather your ingredients, put on a smile, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients: Base: 5 eggs, 5 tablespoons sugar, 5 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, vanilla essence. Cream: 4 egg yolks, 500 ml milk, 1 kg strawberries, 500 ml liquid cream, 8 tablespoons sugar, 30 g gelatin.
