Cherry cake

Cherry cake is a delicious dessert, perfect for warm summer days, but also for moments when you want to indulge in something sweet. This recipe is simple, but the final result will surely impress everyone who tastes it. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare a fluffy and aromatic cherry cake that will surely become a favorite in your family.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 1 kg pitted cherries
- 500 g flour
- 150 ml oil
- 300 ml milk
- 375 g powdered sugar
- 6 large eggs
- Juice and zest of one lemon
- A pinch of salt
- 1 ½ packets of baking powder
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 5 tablespoons sugar (for cherries)
- 3 tablespoons semolina

Preparation steps

Step 1: Preparing the cherries
Start by mixing the pitted cherries with 5 tablespoons of sugar in a large bowl. Let them chill in the refrigerator for an hour. This step will help release the juice from the cherries, which will enhance the flavor of the cake. After an hour, place the cherries in a sieve to drain. It is essential to drain them well so that the cake does not become too wet.

Step 2: Preparing the batter
In a bowl, mix the egg yolks with the baking powder and let them sit for 10 minutes. This step will create an airy base for your batter. After 10 minutes, you will notice small bubbles in the mixture – this is a sign that you have made an important step!

Add the powdered sugar and vanilla sugar, then mix well until you get a smooth cream. The next step is to add the oil, starting with a few drops, then continuing in a thin stream, just like when making mayonnaise. Add the lemon zest for extra flavor, followed by the milk and flour. Gently mix until all ingredients are combined.

Step 3: Preparing the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt and lemon juice until you get a firm foam. It is important to use a clean and dry bowl, as any trace of fat can prevent the egg whites from beating properly. Once you have a firm foam, carefully fold it into the yolk mixture using a spatula and mixing from top to bottom by folding. This technique will keep the air in the egg whites, ensuring a fluffy batter.

Step 4: Assembling the cake
Mix the drained cherries with the semolina. This will help absorb excess moisture, preventing the cherries from sinking into the batter. In a 27 x 40 cm baking dish, place half of the batter mixture. Add the cherries evenly, then cover them with the remaining batter. This layering will allow the cherries to bake evenly and provide an appetizing appearance.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake the cake for 35-40 minutes. You can check if it is done by using a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready! Let it cool in the dish for a few minutes, then transfer it to a serving plate.

Serving and variations

The cherry cake can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. You can also accompany it with a cup of fruit tea or a glass of cold lemonade, which will enhance the flavors of the cake.

Tips and practical advice:
- Make sure the cherries are well drained to avoid a wet batter.
- You can replace the cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create interesting variations.
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of powdered sugar to 300 g.

Nutritional benefits:
Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, having beneficial effects on the immune system and helping to prevent inflammation. Also, this cake, although delicious, can be enjoyed in moderation, having a moderate calorie content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned cherries? Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.
- How can I store the cake? You can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a longer duration.
- Can I add nuts or almonds? Certainly! Adding ground nuts to the batter will provide a crunchy texture and an interesting flavor.

So, now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to get cooking! The cherry cake will delight you with a fresh taste and wonderful aroma, perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!

 Ingredients: 1 kg of sour cherries, 500 g of flour, 150 ml of oil, 300 ml of milk, 375 g of powdered sugar, 6 eggs, the juice and zest of one lemon, salt, 1 and a half packets of baking powder, 3 packets of vanilla, 5 tablespoons of sugar, and 3 tablespoons of semolina for the sour cherries.