Cherry Cream Cake Delight
This delightful cake combines a buttery base, a fluffy sponge, and a rich cream filling, all highlighted by the tartness of cherries. It is perfect for celebrations or as a dessert to impress your guests. The combination of smooth curd cheese and cherry yogurt provides a creamy texture, while the biscuit base adds a delightful crunch. The layers create a harmony of flavors that balance sweetness and tartness perfectly. It's a beautiful cake with a show-stopping appearance, which can be decorated with your choice of berries or meringue biscuits. This cake allows for different variations, serving as a versatile treat for various tastes and dietary preferences. If you're looking for something unique yet comforting, this cake is an excellent choice. It's perfect for family gatherings or a special occasion dessert. Enjoy this beautiful fusion of ingredients that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 150g all-purpose flour
- 100g butter
- 50g sugar
- Zest of half an orange
For the Sponge:
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp flour
For the Cream:
- 700g curd cheese
- 150g heavy cream
- 200g powdered sugar
- 300g cherry yogurt
- 20g gelatin
- 80g water (for soaking gelatin)
- 150g cherry jam
- 100g frozen cherries
Preparation Time
Total: 240 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Prepare the Base: In a bowl, combine flour with softened butter, sugar, and orange zest. Mix until a dough forms, and chill for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Roll out the dough and press it evenly into a cake form. Bake until golden brown, approximately 15 minutes. Remove and let it cool.
- Make the Sponge: Beat the egg, gradually adding sugar. Whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Sift the flour into the egg mixture and fold gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake form and bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (338°F) until a skewer comes out clean. Cool the sponge.
- Prepare the Cream: Soak gelatin in cold water.
- Blend curd cheese until it achieves a fine texture.
- Whip the heavy cream into soft peaks.
- Add powdered sugar and cherry yogurt to the curd cheese, blending well.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the curd mixture.
- Melt the soaked gelatin in a water bath, then swiftly mix it into the curd mixture.
- Pour half of the curd cream over the cooled biscuit base.
- Place the baked sponge layer on top of the cream layer.
- Spread cherry jam and chopped frozen cherries over the sponge.
- Pour the remaining curd cream over the cherry layer.
- Smooth the surface and refrigerate until set.
- Once set, garnish the cake with fresh berries or meringue cookies.
- Serve and enjoy this flavorful and visually stunning cake!
- Bon appétit!
Tips
- Substitutions: You can use any red berries if cherries are not available.
- If you prefer a chocolate version, add cocoa powder to the sponge mixture.
- Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in the cream.
Nutritions (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 8g
- Fats: 20g
- Carbs: 35g
Variations
- For a gluten-free option, replace flour with almond flour.
- Replace curd cheese with ricotta for a different texture.
- Dietary Needs: Use a sugar substitute to make it diabetic-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with a side of fresh whipped cream.
- Pair with a cup of herbal tea for a light afternoon treat.
- Decorate with edible flowers for a sophisticated touch.
Best Places
Pasticceria Marchesi - Known for elegant pastries and cakes located in Milan's fashion district. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, Milan, Italy.
Café Landtmann - A historical café with a legacy for delicious pastries. Location: Universitätsring 4, Vienna, Austria.
Ladurée - Famous worldwide for its macarons and stunning pastries. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
Café Sacher - The home of the original Sachertorte, a must-visit for dessert lovers. Location: Philharmonikerstraße 4, Vienna, Austria.
Patisserie Sadaharu Aoki - Known for French pastries with a Japanese twist. Location: 35 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, France.
Demel - An imperial and royal court confectionary with exquisite cakes. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
Dominique Ansel Bakery - The inventor of the cronut and other innovative desserts. Location: 189 Spring St, New York, USA.
Sweet Lady Jane - Popular for its beautiful cakes and elegant pies. Location: 8360 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
Tate Modern Café - Offers beautiful views alongside artistic desserts. Location: 53 Bankside, London, UK.
Gerbeaud Café - A Hungarian classic for dessert fans, offering beautiful cakes and pastries. Location: Vörösmarty tér 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.