Sponge cake with cheese, cherries, and meringue
Cheese, Cherry, and Meringue Sponge Cake
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 12
A classic delicacy with a modern twist
I present to you a recipe for sponge cake with cheese, cherries, and meringue that combines unique textures and flavors. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from a simple afternoon with friends to a special celebration. The story of this dessert is lost in the mists of time, but it has been cherished by generations for its flavor and the versatility of its ingredients. It is easy to prepare, and the final result will surely delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the sponge:
- 2 large eggs
- 10 tablespoons of milk
- 10 tablespoons of oil
- 13 tablespoons of sugar
- 13 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 2 vials of vanilla essence
- Zest of one orange
- 200 g grated telemea cheese (preferably well-drained)
- 200 g pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
For the meringue:
- 4 egg whites
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
Step by step to a perfect result
1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a finer and airier texture. If using frozen cherries, allow them to thaw and drain well to avoid adding excess moisture to the sponge.
2. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the whole eggs with the sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light in color and doubles in volume, which will take about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy and airy sponge.
3. Adding wet ingredients: Add the oil, milk, vanilla essence, and orange zest to the egg mixture. Mix gently to combine the ingredients, being careful not to lose the incorporated air.
4. Incorporating dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Sift them to aerate, then gradually add them to the wet mixture. Mix with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed until the ingredients are well incorporated.
5. Adding the cheese: Add the grated telemea cheese to the sponge mixture and gently stir to distribute it evenly. This ingredient will add a savory flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cherries.
6. Preparing the baking tray: Grease a tray of approximately 17x22 cm with oil and dust with flour. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the tray.
7. Adding the cherries: Pour the sponge mixture into the tray and evenly distribute the cherries on top. Make sure they are well spread out to achieve a balanced taste in each slice.
8. Baking the sponge: Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the sponge for about 25 minutes. Check if it is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
9. Preparing the meringue: While the sponge is baking, you can prepare the meringue. Beat the egg whites with a clean mixer until they form soft peaks. Gradually add the sugar and lemon juice, continuing to beat until the meringue becomes firm and glossy.
10. Finishing the cake: Once the sponge is baked, remove the tray from the oven and spread the meringue evenly on top. Put the tray back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the meringue becomes golden and crispy.
11. Cooling and serving: Allow the cake to cool completely in the tray, then cut it into squares. It is recommended to serve it the next day for all the flavors to blend perfectly.
Serving suggestions: You can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream on top for extra flavor. This combination will create a delicious contrast between warm and cold.
Variations: Instead of cherries, you can use cherries or peaches for a seasonal cake. You can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as ricotta or goat cheese, for a more intense flavor.
Nutritional information: A serving of cheese, cherry, and meringue sponge cake contains approximately 210 calories. This dessert provides a good source of protein from eggs and cheese, while the cherries add antioxidants and essential vitamins.
Frequently asked questions:
1. What type of cheese can I use?: Telemea cheese is ideal for this dessert, but you can use well-drained cottage cheese or ricotta.
2. Can I replace the cherries?: Absolutely! Cherries or peaches are excellent alternatives.
3. How can I make the meringue more stable?: Adding a tablespoon of cornstarch while beating the egg whites can help maintain the stability of the meringue.
This cheese, cherry, and meringue sponge cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will bring you smiles and joy. Give it a try and you won't regret it!
Ingredients: Sponge Cake: 2 eggs, 10 tablespoons of milk, 10 tablespoons of oil, 13 tablespoons of sugar, 13 tablespoons of flour, 1 packet of baking powder, 2 vials of vanilla essence, 200 g of grated telemea cheese, 200 g of pitted cherries, grated orange peel. Meringue: 4 egg whites, 4 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
