Sponge cake with apricots, cottage cheese, and Oreo
Apricot sponge cake with cottage cheese and Oreo – A seasonal delicacy
Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 10
Cooking is filled with joyful moments, and this recipe for apricot sponge cake with cottage cheese and Oreo will take you on a wave of delicious flavors and textures. Inspired by the talented Vali Nusescu, this cake combines the sweetness of seasonal fruits with the creaminess of cottage cheese and the crunch of Oreo cookies. Whether served at a gathering with friends or a family meal, this recipe will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.
Necessary ingredients
- 3 large eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 200 g sugar (you can adjust the amount to taste)
- 150 ml milk
- 200 ml oil (a neutral oil, such as sunflower oil, is ideal)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for a delicious contrast)
- 6-7 ripe apricots (preferably, but you can also use other seasonal fruits)
- 100 g cottage cheese (choose a fresh and creamy cheese)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (for the cheese)
- 5 Oreo cookies (or more if you want a stronger chocolate flavor)
- Rum essence (a drop for an extra flavor)
Step by step
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Ensure the bowl in which you will beat the egg whites is clean and free of grease to achieve a perfect meringue.
2. Beating the egg whites: Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on high speed until they form a firm foam. Gradually add 200 g of sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a shiny and firm meringue. It is essential that the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Mixing the yolks: In another bowl, mix the yolks with the oil and milk. The mixture should be homogeneous and slightly creamy.
4. Combining the mixtures: Pour the yolk mixture over the beaten egg whites using a silicone spatula or a wooden spoon. Mix gently, folding from the bottom up to keep the air in the meringue.
5. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder into the egg mixture and homogenize. Here, you can also add the rum essence, which will enhance the cake's flavor.
6. Creating the marbled effect: From the obtained mixture, stop about 2 tablespoons and mix them with the cocoa powder. Then, pour the white mixture into the baking tray lined with parchment paper (recommended size: 20x30 cm) and add the cocoa mixture in dollops. This detail will give a special presentation to the cake.
7. Preparing the cheese and fruits: Grate the cottage cheese and mix it with 3 tablespoons of sugar, adjusting the sweetness to taste. Cut the apricots in half and remove the pits. Fill each half with the sweet cheese.
8. Assembling the cake: Place the apricot halves filled with cheese on top of the batter, pressing them gently to integrate. Break the Oreo cookies into small pieces and sprinkle them on top for a crunchy touch.
9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the cake passes the toothpick test. It is important not to open the oven in the first 30 minutes to allow the cake to rise evenly.
10. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the cake cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top or grate chocolate for an elegant look.
Serving suggestions: This cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with caramel sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience. Additionally, a fruit tea or an espresso pairs wonderfully with the sponge cake.
Tips and variations: Experiment with other seasonal fruits such as peaches, apples, or plums. You can also replace the cottage cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a creamier texture. Instead of Oreo cookies, try digestive biscuits or amaretti for a different note.
Nutritional benefits: This cake provides vitamins from the fruit and protein from the cheese, making it a healthier choice for dessert. With a moderate calorie content, it is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulging.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can use any preferred seasonal fruits. Make sure they are ripe and flavorful for the best results.
2. How can I store the cake? The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it slightly before serving.
3. Is it possible to reduce the sugar? Of course, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to personal preferences, especially in the case of cottage cheese.
This recipe for apricot sponge cake with cottage cheese and Oreo is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an opportunity to express your creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with your loved ones! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: Ingredients: 3 eggs, 200 g sugar, 150 ml milk, 200 ml oil, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon cocoa, 6-7 apricots, 100 g cottage cheese + 3 tablespoons sugar, 5 Oreo biscuits, rum essence
