Cherry cake

Cherry Cake – A Delight So Simple and Tasty!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

If you're looking for a quick and delicious dessert recipe, I invite you to put on your apron and prepare a cherry cake! This moist and flavorful dessert combines the sweetness of sugar with the tartness of cherries, creating a unique taste experience. Over time, the cake has been a popular choice for many occasions due to its versatility. It is perfect for an afternoon snack, but also to impress guests at a party.

The basic ingredients are simple and accessible, and the preparation method is easy, even for those who don't have much experience in the kitchen.

Ingredients:
- 4 fresh eggs
- 14 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 12 tablespoons of sunflower oil (or olive oil for a stronger taste)
- 15-18 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (about 10 g)
- 1 vanilla essence
- 1 lemon essence or the grated zest of a lemon
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 150-200 g cherries (fresh or from a jar, well drained and pitted)

Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help with better homogenization of the mixture. If you are using frozen cherries, let them thaw and drain well to avoid excess water in the cake.

2. Beat the eggs with the sugar: In a large bowl, add the 4 eggs and the 14 tablespoons of sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients on medium speed until the mixture becomes frothy and the sugar completely dissolves. This step is essential for achieving an airy texture.

3. Add the oil and flavors: Continuing to mix, add the 12 tablespoons of oil. Then add the vanilla essence, lemon essence, and vanilla sugar. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Incorporate the flour: Sift the flour together with the baking powder to prevent lumps from forming. Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon, so that no lumps form. It is important to mix gently to keep the air in the mixture.

5. Add the cherries: Once the flour is well incorporated, add the pitted cherries and mix gently to distribute them evenly in the mixture.

6. Preparing the cake pan: Grease a loaf pan with butter or oil and dust it with flour or line it with baking paper. This step will help the cake not to stick and to come out easily after baking.

7. Baking: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat). Bake the cake for about 55 minutes, but it is good to check it with a toothpick to ensure it is well baked inside. If the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is ready!

8. Cooling and serving: After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove it to a rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar or decorate it with a caramel glaze for an extra touch of elegance.

Practical tips:
- Variations: You can experiment with other fruits, such as cherries or blueberries, to add a different note to your cake. Also, add chopped nuts or almonds for a crunchy texture.
- Serving: This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce. A cup of coffee or tea will perfectly complement this dessert.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of cherry cake contains approximately 250 calories, being a source of carbohydrates and fats. Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, adding extra nutrients to your dessert.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use jarred cherries? Yes, make sure to drain them well before adding them to the mixture.
- Why should I use vanilla sugar? Vanilla sugar adds a rich and sweet flavor, perfectly complementing the taste of the cherries.
- How do I know when the cake is ready? Use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is baked. If it sticks, leave it in the oven for a few more minutes.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to unleash your imagination and enjoy a beautiful culinary experience. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 4 eggs, 14 tablespoons of sugar, 12 tablespoons of oil, 15-18 tablespoons of flour, a pinch of baking powder, vanilla essence, lemon essence or zest from one lemon, vanilla sugar, 150-200g of cherries.