If you’re craving a dessert that’s both creamy and fruity with a touch of tanginess, this Yogurt Cherry Cake is the perfect choice. It’s a delicious combination of homemade cherry jam, fluffy yogurt cream, and a buttery dough that will melt in your mouth. With a simple yet elegant flavor profile, this cake is ideal for gatherings, or simply to treat yourself and your loved ones to a heavenly dessert. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become your new favorite!
Ingredients
For the Cherry Jam:
- 500g cherries (frozen): The star of this recipe, cherries add a sweet, tangy flavor to the cake. You can use fresh cherries if in season, but frozen works just as well and is often more convenient.
- 70g cornstarch: This thickens the cherry mixture and gives the jam the right consistency.
- 150g sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the cherries.
- 150ml water: Used to help dissolve the sugar and create a syrupy texture.
For the Dough:
- 3 egg yolks: Provide richness and a smooth texture to the dough.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the flavors of the dough.
- 80g powdered sugar: Sweetens the dough, helping to create a light and tender base.
- 80g melted butter: Adds moisture and flavor to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a lovely aromatic flavor to complement the cherry and yogurt.
- 200g flour: The base ingredient for the dough.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the dough rise and become light.
For the Cream:
- 500g Greek yogurt: The creamy base of this filling, providing a smooth texture and tangy flavor.
- 50g cornstarch: Used to thicken the yogurt cream mixture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, sweet flavor that pairs well with the tanginess of the yogurt.
- 3 egg whites: Whipped to stiff peaks to create a fluffy, light texture for the cream.
- Pinch of salt: Helps stabilize the egg whites when whipped.
- 130g sugar: Sweetens the cream and balances the tanginess of the yogurt.
Preparation Steps
Cherry Jam:
- Prepare the Cherry Jam: In a saucepan, combine the frozen cherries, cornstarch, sugar, and water. Stir to combine and cook over medium heat, bringing it to a simmer. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.
Dough Preparation:
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, salt, powdered sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. Slowly add the flour and baking powder, mixing until you have a smooth, homogeneous dough. Set aside a small portion of the dough, about 1/3 of the total amount, and place it in the freezer for 15 minutes.
Cream:
- Prepare the Cream: In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Mix well to form a smooth mixture. In another bowl, beat the egg whites and a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yogurt mixture until fully combined, creating a light, fluffy cream.
Assembly:
- Assemble the Cake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Take the small portion of dough that you set aside in the freezer and grate it into fine shreds. In a 20cm baking pan, layer the dough first, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Next, add a generous layer of the homemade cherry jam, followed by the yogurt cream mixture, spreading it smoothly over the jam.
Baking:
- Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the cake opens evenly. You’ll know it’s done when the cake has a firm texture and the cream has set.
Serving
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Cut it into slices and enjoy this irresistible treat. The combination of the sweet cherry jam, creamy yogurt, and buttery dough will leave you coming back for more. For an added touch, you can garnish with fresh cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Cherries: If fresh cherries are in season, feel free to substitute them for frozen cherries. They’ll give the jam a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough before baking; it helps maintain a crisp texture and prevents the dough from spreading too much during baking.
- Substitute Yogurt: If you prefer, you can use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. However, Greek yogurt adds a thicker, richer texture that makes the cream filling even more indulgent.
- Make It Lighter: If you want a lighter version of the cake, you can reduce the sugar or swap in a sugar substitute. You can also use light yogurt for the cream.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cherries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, cherries help support immune health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Greek Yogurt: Packed with protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt supports digestive health and is an excellent source of calcium.
- Eggs: Full of essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals, eggs add richness to both the dough and the cream.
- Flour and Cornstarch: These ingredients provide structure and texture to the cake, contributing to the overall satisfying mouthfeel.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This cake is suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients beyond dairy and eggs.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the cornstarch is certified gluten-free as well.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
1. Can I use another fruit for the jam?
Yes! You can use other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries to make the jam. Just adjust the amount of sugar depending on the fruit’s sweetness.
2. Can I make the cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve as it sits.
3. How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the yogurt cream has set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the cake should feel firm to the touch.
4. Can I make this cake dairy-free?
You can substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt, such as coconut yogurt or almond milk-based yogurt, and use dairy-free butter to make this cake dairy-free.
5. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to keep the cream filling fresh.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 1 month in the freezer. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
This Irresistible Yogurt Cherry Cake is a perfect blend of fruity sweetness, creamy texture, and light, buttery dough. Whether you’re serving it at a party, enjoying it with a cup of coffee, or sharing it with friends and family, it’s bound to impress. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a must-try dessert that will become a staple in your baking collection. Enjoy!