Strawberry cake

Fraisier Cake – A French Delicacy with a Spring Flavor

The Fraisier cake is a gem of French patisserie, a refined combination of fluffy sponge layers, fine vanilla cream, and juicy strawberries. While the original recipe includes marzipan, I found a personalized version using white chocolate, which adds an extra layer of flavor and an attractive look to the cake. In this detailed guide, I will share the necessary steps to create a delicious Fraisier cake, perfect for any occasion.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Cooling time: 2-3 hours
Total: 3-4 hours
Servings: 10-12

Ingredients

For the sponge:
- 6 medium eggs
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 6 tablespoons flour

For the cream:
- 500 ml milk
- 100 g sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 80 g flour
- 1 vial vanilla essence or 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- 200 ml natural whipped cream
- 1 packet gelatin hydrated in a little water

For decoration:
- 1 kg fresh strawberries
- 100 g white chocolate
- 80 ml liquid cream
- 3 squares dark chocolate

For the syrup:
- 100 ml water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 4 crushed strawberries

Preparing the Sponge

1. Preparing the mixture: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed until frothy. Gradually add the sugar in two batches, continuing to mix until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes glossy.

2. Adding the yolks: Add the egg yolks, gently folding them in with a spatula until fully incorporated.

3. Incorporating the flour: Sift the flour over the mixture and carefully fold it in using an up-and-down motion to avoid deflating the egg whites.

4. Baking: Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leveling the surface. Bake for 25 minutes or until the sponge is golden and passes the toothpick test. After baking, allow the sponge to cool completely on a wire rack.

Preparing the Vanilla Cream

1. Heating the milk: In a saucepan, heat the milk along with the vanilla essence. Be careful not to let it boil too vigorously.

2. Mixing the yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar and flour until you have a smooth mixture. Gradually add the hot milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

3. Thickening the cream: Place the mixture over low heat and stir continuously until the cream thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Once ready, remove the saucepan from heat and let the cream cool slightly.

4. Adding the gelatin: Add the hydrated gelatin and stir until completely dissolved. Allow the cream to cool completely, then fold in the whipped cream.

Assembling the Cake

1. Preparing the mold: Place a removable ring on a serving plate and line the edges with parchment paper. Cut the sponge into two equal layers if you opted to bake two sponges.

2. Assembling the cake: Place the first sponge layer on the plate. Prepare a syrup from water, sugar, and the crushed strawberries, which you will use to soak the sponge. Drizzle the syrup evenly over the first layer.

3. Adding the strawberries: Arrange halved strawberries along the inner edges of the ring, cut side facing out. Place strawberries on the soaked sponge as well.

4. Vanilla cream: Pour the vanilla cream over the strawberries, leveling it well. Place the second sponge layer on top, soak it, and refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours.

Decorating the Cake

1. Preparing the chocolate: In a bowl, melt the white chocolate together with the liquid cream, stirring well until you have a smooth mixture.

2. Decorating the cake: Once the cake has chilled, remove the ring and pour the melted chocolate over the top. Leave the cake in the fridge for another 20 minutes.

3. Finishing touches: Decorate the cake with a few fresh strawberries and grated dark chocolate for a contrast of colors and flavors.

Practical Tips

- Strawberries: Use seasonal, fresh, and flavorful strawberries. Strawberries from different regions may have varying tastes, so choose them carefully.
- Gelatin: If you choose not to use gelatin, ensure that the whipped cream is well-beaten and that the cake will chill long enough to set.
- Vegan option: You can replace the eggs with banana or apple puree to create a vegan cake. Use coconut milk or other vegan alternatives for the cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of flour?: You can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture of the sponges may vary.
- How can I keep the cake fresh?: The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Can I use other fruits?: Yes, you can substitute strawberries with raspberries or peaches for a cake with different flavors.

Serving and Pairing

The Fraisier cake pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, but can also be enjoyed with a glass of sweet white wine or prosecco for a festive touch. It is an ideal dessert for festive meals, anniversaries, or gatherings with friends.

Conclusion

The Fraisier cake is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that combines tradition and innovation. Even if you can't find all the original ingredients, this personalized version is just as delicious and will bring joy to your table! Savor each slice and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones.

 Ingredients: Base: -6 medium eggs -6 tablespoons sugar -6 tablespoons flour Cream: -500 ml milk -100 g sugar -4 egg yolks -80 g flour -1 vial vanilla essence/vanilla paste/vanilla sugar -200 ml liquid cream Pilos -1 packet gelatin hydrated in a little water -1 kg strawberries -100g white chocolate -80 ml liquid cream -3 squares dark chocolate Syrup: -100 ml water -1 tablespoon sugar -4 crushed strawberries

 Tags:  strawberry cake