Fruit and meringue cake

Fruit and meringue cake is a dessert that brings joy and flavor, perfect for special moments or even for ordinary days when you need a comforting sweet treat. This cake is a delicious combination of fresh fruits and a fluffy meringue that melts in your mouth. Let's embark on a culinary journey step by step to achieve a perfect result!

Total preparation time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 35-40 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Servings: 12

Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 300 g butter (at room temperature)
- 300 g sugar
- 300 g flour
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 packet of baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 7 large eggs (plus 3 egg yolks)
- 300 g sour cherries (preferably fresh)
- 3 peaches (small or medium)
- 3 apricots

For the meringue:
- 3 egg whites
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Preparing the cake:

Step 1: Preparing the fruits
We start with the fruits, as they are the stars of this dessert. Pit the sour cherries and let them drain in a strainer. If the cherries are too sour, add a little sugar over them and let them sit for a few minutes to sweeten. Slice the apricots and peaches thinly, making sure to remove the pits. These fruits bring flavor and juiciness to the entire cake, so don't rush the process!

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the softened butter and sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to cream the butter with the sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes fluffy. This is an essential step, as the air incorporated into the butter will make the cake fluffier.

Then add the 10 egg yolks one by one, mixing well after each addition. This will enrich the texture and provide a rich flavor to the dessert.

In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Gently incorporate this mixture into the butter mixture, stirring until everything is homogeneous. Finally, fold in the whipped egg whites with a spatula, mixing slowly from bottom to top. This step is crucial to maintain the air in the egg whites, which will give the cake an airy texture.

Step 3: Baking the cake
Grease a large baking pan with butter and line it with parchment paper. Carefully pour the dough mixture into the pan, then arrange the fruits on top in the desired order. Be creative and use an artistic pattern!

Place the pan in the preheated oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes. Check the cake with a toothpick to ensure it is baked; the toothpick should come out clean.

Step 4: Preparing the meringue
While the cake is baking, you can prepare the meringue. Beat the 3 egg whites until foamy, then gradually add the 5 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. Finally, add the cornstarch, mixing gently.

Step 5: Finishing the cake
After the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and spread the meringue evenly on top. Put the cake back in the oven for another 4-5 minutes, until the meringue is lightly browned and firm. It is important to monitor this step, as the meringue can become too hard if left too long.

Serving and suggestions
Let the cake cool slightly before cutting it. You can serve it warm or cold, and it is delicious alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra flavor.

Nutritional information
The fruit and meringue cake is a delicious choice, but like any dessert, it should be consumed in moderation. One serving (approximately 100 g) contains about 320 calories, providing a good source of energy thanks to the fresh fruits and eggs. The fruits bring essential vitamins, while the meringue offers a sweet indulgence.

Possible variations
This recipe is extremely versatile! You can experiment with different types of fruits, such as apples, pears, or strawberries. You can also add some chopped nuts to the dough for a crunchy texture. If you prefer a more exotic note, try adding a little lemon juice to the meringue for a fresher taste.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of fruits?
Yes, you can replace the sour cherries, peaches, and apricots with seasonal fruits or your favorites.

2. How can I avoid a soggy meringue?
Make sure the egg whites are beaten well and that the meringue is baked sufficiently, but not left too long in the oven.

3. Can I make the cake a few days in advance?
Sure! The cake stores well in the refrigerator, but it is recommended to consume it within 3 days to maintain the freshness of the fruits and meringue.

With this fruit and meringue cake recipe, you will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Plus, it's a perfect opportunity to showcase your cooking skills and enjoy a delicious dessert! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 300g butter 300g sugar 300g flour 2 packets vanilla sugar 1 packet baking powder a pinch of salt 7 eggs plus 3 yolks 300g cherries 2 peaches 3 apricots For meringue: 3 egg whites 5 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon cornstarch