Cherry slices

Cool Cherry Dessert: Delicious Slices for Summer Days

Who can resist a refreshing cherry cake on hot summer days? This cherry slice recipe is not only a visual delight but also a treat for the taste buds. With a fluffy base, a smooth cherry cream cheese filling, and a sweet glaze, this dessert will cool you down on sunny days and bring a smile to your face.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 3 hours 40 minutes (including cooling time)
Servings: 12 slices

Ingredients

For the base:
- 3 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 150 g flour
- 40 g cocoa powder
- 1 packet Dr. Oetker baking powder
- 2 tablespoons hot water

For the cream:
- 600 g fresh cherries
- 500 g cottage cheese
- 200 ml whipped cream
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 10 g Dr. Oetker gelatin
- 2 tablespoons cherry liqueur
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 100 g chocolate flakes
- 200 g cherry jam

Recipe Story

This recipe has its roots in culinary traditions that celebrate seasonal fruits. Cherries, with their unique sweetness and acidity, have always been at the center of summer dishes. So, as we savor each slice, we can also enjoy memories of summers spent in the garden, with fresh cherries and smiles accompanied by the sun.

Step by Step for a Perfect Dessert

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is an essential step to ensure even baking of the base. Line a medium-sized baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make it easier to remove the cake after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a large bowl, add the eggs and sugar. Using a mixer, beat them together on high speed. After about 5-7 minutes, the eggs should triple in volume and become a light-colored foam. Then, add the hot water - this secret ingredient will make the base moister and fluffier.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. This will prevent lumps and ensure a fine texture. Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture using a spatula and the "folding" technique to keep the air in the base.

Step 4: Bake the Base
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and when the edges start to rise slightly and feel firm to the touch, it’s ready! Check with a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the base is perfectly baked.

Step 5: Fill the Base
Once the base has completely cooled, spread the cherry jam evenly over it. This not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also contributes to the moisture of the cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream
Wash the cherries, remove the pits, and let them drain. In another bowl, soak the gelatin according to the package instructions. Mix the cottage cheese with the powdered sugar, vanilla sugar, and cherry liqueur using a mixer on low speed for about 3 minutes until you achieve a smooth mixture.

Step 7: Incorporate the Gelatin
Take 3 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture and mix them with the soaked gelatin. Then, combine this mixture with the rest of the cheese. This step is important for ensuring a creamy texture without lumps.

Step 8: Add the Whipped Cream
Whip the cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This step will make the cream fluffier and airier. Add the cherries and chocolate flakes, mixing gently to avoid crushing the fruit.

Step 9: Assemble the Dessert
Place the jam-covered base back into the lined pan, then pour the cherry cream cheese mixture on top. Ensure it is evenly distributed. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours to set.

Step 10: Serve
Once the cake has cooled and set, it’s time to slice it. Cut generous slices and serve them with a glass of cold lemonade or a fragrant winter tea. It’s a perfect dessert for a summer party or simply to indulge in after a hot day.

Practical Tips
- Buy fresh cherries: Choose firm cherries with a deep color. Avoid cherries with blemishes or soft skins.
- For a vegan version: Replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water (1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use a plant-based whipped cream substitute.
- For a more intense flavor: You can add a bit of almond extract to the cream cheese for a surprising aroma.

Nutritional Benefits
Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to heart health and the immune system. Additionally, cottage cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, making this dessert a healthy choice in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen cherries? Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid a too-wet cream.
- What can I do with leftover jam? You can use cherry jam to fill pancakes, add it to yogurt, or simply as a topping for ice cream.

Recommended Pairings
This delicious dessert pairs wonderfully with a sweet white wine or fresh lemonade. You can also enjoy a slice of cake alongside a flavored iced coffee for an absolutely indulgent moment.

Share your story in the kitchen by sharing this recipe with loved ones and enjoying every slice of cake. Cherry slices - a dessert that brings summer to the table!

 Ingredients: Ingredients for the base: - 3 eggs - 150 g sugar - 150 g flour - 40 g cocoa - 1 packet baking powder Dr.Oetker - 2 tablespoons hot water Ingredients for the cream - 600 g cherries - 500 g cottage cheese - 200 ml whipped cream - 100 g powdered sugar - 10 g gelatin Dr. Oetker - 2 tablespoons cherry liqueur - 2 packets vanilla sugar - 100 g chocolate flakes - 200 g cherry jam

 Tags:  cherry cake