Round cake (Bundt cake)

Round Cake (Tulband cake): A classic delicacy for any table

In the world of cooking, the round cake or tulband is a recipe that reminds us of sunny days, family gatherings, and special moments spent together. This simple and delicious dessert is perfect for serving at breakfast or as a snack during the day. With a fluffy texture and a flavor enriched by candied fruits and nuts, the round cake will surely find its place in your heart and on your table.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes - 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour - 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 250 g sugar
- 200 ml cold milk
- 100 ml sunflower oil
- Flour (approximately 300-350 g, enough to achieve a batter similar to thick sour cream)
- One packet of baking powder (10 g)
- A pinch of salt
- 100 g candied fruits (apricots, cherries, raisins)
- 100 g nuts (roasted and ground or chopped)
- Essences: vanilla and lemon (or lemon zest)
- 50 g butter (for greasing the pan)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Use of ingredients:
The eggs are the base of this cake, providing a fluffy texture. Choose fresh eggs, preferably from local farms. Sugar adds sweetness but also moisture, contributing to the tenderness of the dessert. Cold milk helps activate the baking powder, while sunflower oil gives a neutral taste, allowing the other flavors to shine. The candied fruits and nuts not only add flavor but also contribute to a pleasant appearance of the cake.

Steps for preparation:

1. Preparing the batter:
Start by gathering all the ingredients. In a large bowl (preferably plastic or glass), add the 3 eggs along with the sugar. Using a mixer, beat them on high speed until you achieve a thick, light-colored foam. This step is crucial as the air incorporated into the eggs will provide the cake's fluffy texture.

2. Adding the liquid ingredients:
Reduce the mixer speed to a lower setting and gradually add the oil. Mix well, then pour in the cold milk with a pinch of salt (this will dissolve more easily). Continue mixing to combine the ingredients.

3. Incorporating the dry ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing with the mixer on low speed until you obtain a homogeneous, thicker batter resembling sour cream. Make sure there are no lumps of flour.

4. Adding flavors and texture:
Finally, add the candied fruits, nuts, and the essences of vanilla and lemon. Use a wooden spoon to gently mix so that the ingredients are evenly distributed in the batter.

5. Preparing the baking pan:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a cake pan (preferably round) with butter and dust it with flour, ensuring it is well covered to prevent sticking.

6. Baking:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the surface. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the oven. Check if it is done using a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked.

7. Cooling and serving:
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a plate. Dust it with powdered sugar for a special appearance. It can be served plain or with a portion of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a touch of originality, try replacing the candied fruits with chopped chocolate or caramelized nuts.
- Always check the freshness of the ingredients, especially the baking powder, to ensure a fluffy cake.
- You can experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or cardamom for an exotic note.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil or even melted butter for a richer taste.
2. How can I keep the cake fresh?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and if you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it.
3. What drinks go well with this cake?
A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fruit tea will perfectly complement the sweetness of this dessert.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake is a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy due to the sugar and flour. The candied fruits add vitamins, and the nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats. However, it is important to consume in moderation, considering the sugar content.

This round cake (tulband cake) is not just a recipe but an invitation to spend pleasant moments with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it at a gathering with friends or at a family meal, each slice will bring a smile to the faces of those dear to you. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 3 eggs, 250 g sugar, 200 ml cold milk, 100 ml sunflower oil, flour as needed to make a batter thicker than sour cream. Dried fruits, nuts. Essences: vanilla, lemon or lemon zest. Salt: a pinch. One packet of baking powder. A bit of butter (50 g) for greasing the loaf pan. Powdered sugar.