Simple meringue cake

The perfect dessert for a relaxing afternoon or a special occasion, the simple meringue cake is a true delight. This recipe harmoniously combines the fluffy texture of the base with the fine and crunchy meringue, turning each bite into an explosion of flavors. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a baking time of 35 minutes, you will get 12 servings of sweet indulgence, perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

A brief history of meringue cake

The meringue cake has deep roots in pastry tradition, being a dessert that has crossed generations. Whether served at a festive meal or simply at a gathering with friends, this dessert is appreciated for its balance between sweet and tart, especially when enriched with seasonal fruits like sour cherries.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 6 large eggs
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g flour
- 100 ml oil
- 50 ml water
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 kg sour cherries (pitted)
- a pinch of salt
- 1 packet of baking powder (optional, but recommended to be quenched with vinegar)

For the meringue:
- 4 egg whites
- 250 g sugar

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes

Number of servings: 12

Step-by-step instructions

1. Separating the eggs: Start by carefully separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure no traces of yolk remain in the egg whites, as they need to be very clean to achieve a successful meringue.

2. Preparing the base: In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a glossy meringue. If you choose to use baking powder, you can add vinegar at this point to quench it.

3. Mixing the wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine the yolks with water, oil, salt, and vanilla sugar. Mix well with a whisk or spatula until homogeneous.

4. Combining the preparations: Pour the yolk mixture over the egg whites, then add the sifted flour. Gently fold using a spatula to avoid losing air from the meringue.

5. Adding the sour cherries: If you chose to use sour cherries, it’s time to add them. You can gently fold them into the batter or evenly distribute them on top for an attractive appearance.

6. Baking the base: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the base is golden and passes the toothpick test.

7. Preparing the meringue: Meanwhile, prepare the meringue. Beat the egg whites on high speed and gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until they become stiff. A successful meringue should be glossy and form firm peaks.

8. Finalizing the cake: Once the base is baked, remove it from the oven and place the meringue on top. Return the cake to the oven for another 5 minutes, until the meringue turns slightly golden.

9. Cooling the cake: Once the meringue is ready, leave the cake in the oven with the door open to cool gradually. This step is crucial to prevent the meringue from cracking.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Choose ingredients carefully: Use fresh eggs, as they will provide a more stable meringue. Also, quality sugar will contribute to the meringue's fine texture.
- Cleanliness is essential: Ensure that bowls and utensils are impeccably clean. Any trace of grease or moisture can compromise the foam.
- Temperature of the ingredients: Let the egg whites reach room temperature before beating them. This will help achieve a firmer meringue.
- No baking powder: Your cake base will be fluffier without adding baking powder. Experiment to discover the version you like best!

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other fruits instead of sour cherries? Yes, you can use any seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Each variation will give a different and interesting taste to your cake.
- How can I store the cake? Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.

Delicious combinations

Enjoy the simple meringue cake alongside:
- A scoop of vanilla or fruit ice cream, which will contrast pleasantly with the sweet meringue.
- An aromatic herbal tea, which will add a touch of freshness.

Nutritional benefits

This cake, although deliciously sweet, can be a relatively light dessert if consumed in moderation. The eggs provide quality protein, while sour cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

I wish you great cooking! Every step you follow will bring you closer to a dessert that not only looks good but also offers an unforgettable culinary experience. Don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on the recipe and experiment with different flavors!

 Ingredients: 6 eggs, 200 g sugar, 200 g flour, 100 ml oil, 50 ml water, 2 packets of vanilla sugar, 1 kg cherries, salt, 1 packet of baking powder dissolved in vinegar. Meringue: 4 egg whites, 250 g sugar.