Cherry cake

Cherry Cake: a classic recipe with a modern twist

Who doesn't love a simple yet delicious dessert that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones? The cherry cake is a perfect choice for any time of the day, from a savory breakfast to a sweet snack with coffee. This recipe combines the flavor of cherries with a fluffy texture, and the contrast between the vanilla batter and the cocoa one is simply irresistible. I will show you step by step how to prepare this quick, hearty, and flavorful dessert.

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 10

Ingredients you need

- 6 fresh eggs
- 9 tablespoons of sugar (6 for the batter and 3 for the cherries)
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 and a half cups of pitted cherries
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)
- Oil or butter (for greasing the pan)

A brief history of the recipe

The cake is a traditional dessert that has gained popularity due to its versatility. Originating from Europe, the cake has evolved over time, with each culture contributing its own touch. Today, cake recipes include a variety of ingredients, from fruits to chocolate, making it a perfect dessert for all tastes. Cherries, with their distinct and slightly sour flavor, have always been a favorite ingredient in homemade cakes.

Step by step: How to prepare the cherry cake

Step 1: Preparing the cherries

Start by washing the cherries under a stream of cold water. Carefully remove the pits, as they can ruin the texture of the dessert. Place the cherries in a bowl and sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of sugar over them. Let them rest while you prepare the batter, so they soak in the sugar and release their juice.

Step 2: Preparing the batter

1. Separating the eggs: In a large bowl, separate the yolks from the whites. Make sure no yolk remains in the whites, as they need to be whipped well.

2. Mixing the yolks: Use a mixer to beat the yolks with the 6 tablespoons of sugar and the vanilla sugar until you get a creamy and light-colored mixture.

3. Incorporating the flour: Mix the flour with the baking powder and gradually add it to the yolk mixture, mixing constantly. It's important to add the flour spoon by spoon to avoid lumps.

4. Whipping the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with the lemon juice until you get a stiff foam. Carefully fold them into the yolk mixture, gently mixing with a spatula to maintain the air in the egg whites.

5. Adding the essence: Finally, add the vanilla essence for extra flavor. Mix well.

6. Creating the cocoa mixture: Divide the batter into two equal parts. In one of them, add the 2 tablespoons of cocoa and mix well.

Step 3: Assembling the cake

1. Preparing the pan: Grease a loaf pan with a little oil or butter, then line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Adding the mixture: Start by pouring the white mixture (without cocoa) into the pan. Then add the cocoa mixture. Finally, place the drained cherries on top.

3. Baking: Preheat the oven to a low temperature (about 160°C) and bake the cake for 30 minutes. Use the toothpick test: if the toothpick comes out clean, the dessert is ready.

Step 4: Cooling and serving

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look and a touch of sweetness.

Serving suggestions

The cherry cake pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. It can be served plain or with a dollop of whipped cream. You can also add vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Possible variations

- Vegan: Replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) and use plant-based milk.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour to make a gluten-free version.
- With other fruits: Instead of cherries, you can use sweet cherries, raspberries, or even peaches to add a different note to the dessert.

Nutritional benefits

Cherries are an excellent source of antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain essential vitamins such as vitamin C and A, which help maintain a healthy immune system. The cake, although a dessert, can be enjoyed in moderation, offering a sweet pleasure without being extremely caloric, with each serving having about 250 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen cherries? Yes, frozen cherries are an excellent option. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
- How can I store the cake? The cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use.
- What should I do if the batter doesn't rise enough? Make sure the baking powder is fresh and that you haven't opened the oven door during baking, as temperature fluctuations can prevent rising.

In conclusion, the cherry cake is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Try it and enjoy every bite! I invite you to share your impressions with me and let me know how it turned out! Cooking is an art, and you are the artist. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 6 eggs, 9 tablespoons of sugar (6 for the dough and 3 for the cherries), 6 tablespoons of flour, 2 tablespoons of cocoa, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 3 packets of vanilla sugar, vanilla essence, 1 packet of baking powder, 1 and a half cups of pitted cherries, powdered sugar (for dusting), oil or butter for greasing the pan.