Fruit cake with cream cheese
Fruit and Cream Cheese Cake - A Festive Delight
The holidays come with joy, and a fruit and cream cheese cake is the perfect choice to impress family and friends. This cake not only looks spectacular but is also delicious, combining the smooth texture of the cream with the flavor of fresh fruits. From the fluffy base to the delicate cream and fruit decoration, each bite is an explosion of flavors. Let's begin the culinary journey!
Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 25 minutes
- Baking time: 30-35 minutes
- Total time: 5 hours (including cooling and refrigeration time)
- Number of servings: 12
Ingredients:
*For the Base:*
- 7 eggs
- 210 g sugar
- 210 g flour
*For the Cream and Decoration:*
- 250 g cream cheese (preferably Philadelphia)
- 550 ml whipping cream
- 110 g fine sugar
- 1 packet granular gelatin
- 1 large can of peaches
- 1 small can of pineapple
- 3 kiwi fruits
- 3 strawberries
- Grapes
- Orange slices
- 1 packet transparent gelatin for glaze
Preparation Steps:
1. Preheat the oven:
Start by preheating the oven to 160°C. This is the ideal temperature to achieve a fluffy base.
2. Preparing the base:
In a large bowl, mix the eggs with the sugar for about 25 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy and frothy. This step is essential as the incorporated air will make the base rise beautifully and be light.
Sift the flour and gently fold it into the egg mixture using a silicone spatula and folding motions. This will help maintain the air in the mixture.
Pour the mixture into a 26 cm diameter cake pan lined with parchment paper. It is important to tap the pan a few times on the counter to eliminate air bubbles. Place the pan in the oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the base passes the toothpick test.
3. Cooling the base:
After the base is baked, let it cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar (you can use the handle of a wooden spoon to keep it open) for 15-20 minutes. Then, remove it from the oven, take off the ring of the pan and the parchment paper, and let it cool completely on a kitchen rack. When the base is completely cool, cut it into three equal discs.
4. Preparing the cream:
In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with the sugar until it dissolves completely. It is essential for the cream cheese to be at room temperature for even mixing.
Strain the fruit compotes to obtain the juice. Use 100 ml of this juice to prepare the gelatin according to the instructions on the package. Add the syrup with the melted gelatin to the cheese mixture while the mixer is running. Then, carefully fold in 250 ml of softly whipped cream using the spatula to maintain an airy texture.
5. Assembling the cake:
Soak each disc of the base with the remaining fruit syrup. Place a ring from the cake pan on a platter and start alternating the bases with the cream cheese. Continue this process until all the bases and cream are used.
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to set the cream.
6. Decorating the cake:
After the cake has cooled and set, remove the cake ring using a spatula. Spread whipped cream evenly over all sides of the cake, ensuring it is uniformly covered.
Decorate the cake with fresh fruit, cut into thin slices. Prepare the glaze gelatin according to the instructions on the package, using the remaining fruit syrup or water. Using a brush, glaze the fruits with the melted gelatin to achieve a shiny and appetizing appearance. Finish the edges of the cake with whipped cream stars for an elegant look.
7. Serving:
Let the cake sit for a few minutes before serving. It keeps well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This will help with more even mixing.
- You can try using different types of fruits depending on the season. Berries, mango, or peaches will add a delicious tropical note.
- If you want to reduce the amount of sugar, you can replace the sugar in the cream with a natural sweetener such as honey or maple syrup.
- The cake pairs excellently with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for added flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
This fruit and cream cheese cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Fresh fruits provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, while cream cheese offers protein and calcium. It can be a balanced dessert, especially if you are mindful of portions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- *Can I use other fruits?* Yes, it is a versatile recipe, so feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits.
- *How long can the cake be stored?* The cake keeps in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best within the first 48 hours.
- *How can I make this cake healthier?* You can use whole wheat flour, low-fat cream, and reduce the sugar.
This fruit and cream cheese cake is undoubtedly a perfect choice for festive meals. With each bite, you will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones and create unforgettable moments. Prepare it with love and enjoy every slice!
Ingredients: Base - 7 eggs - 210 g sugar - 210 g flour Cream and decoration - 250 g Philadelphia cream cheese - 550 ml whipped cream - 110 g fine sugar - 1 packet granulated gelatin - 1 large can of peaches - 1 small can of pineapple - 3 kiwi fruits - 3 strawberries - grapes - orange slices - 1 packet transparent gelatin for glazing
