Indulge in the delightful flavors of Italy with this exquisite cake that combines the tangy zest of lemon and the sweetness of syrupy peaches. This cake, loved by many, is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced one, this recipe will guide you to creating a masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for more. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best results. This cake is perfect for a summer gathering, a cozy family dinner, or as a special treat for yourself. Let’s dive into the details and see why this cake is a favorite in Italy.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 egg
- 100 grams of sugar
- 8 grams of vanilla sugar
- Zest of one lemon 🍋
- 140 grams of butter
- 300 grams of 00 flour
- 10 grams of baking powder
Cream:
- 400 ml of milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 8 grams of vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons of corn starch
- 3 tablespoons of sour cream or mascarpone
- 30 ml of lemon juice
Topping:
- 800 grams of peaches in syrup
- Egg whites or sliced almonds for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease and line a baking tin with parchment paper. This will ensure that your cake doesn’t stick to the pan and makes for an easy cleanup.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, beat the egg, sugar, and vanilla sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake a light and airy texture.
- Add the lemon zest and melted butter, mixing well. The lemon zest adds a fresh, citrusy aroma that complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Sift together the flour and baking powder, then gradually add to the wet ingredients. Mix until well combined. Sifting the flour helps to avoid lumps and ensures a smooth batter.
- Prepare the Cream:
- In a saucepan, heat the milk until warm. Be careful not to let it boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla sugar, and corn starch until smooth. This mixture will thicken the cream and give it a rich, velvety texture.
- Slowly add the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking continuously. This tempering process prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly and curdling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. This step requires patience, but it’s important to achieve the right consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream or mascarpone and lemon juice. Allow to cool. The addition of sour cream or mascarpone adds a tangy richness that balances the sweetness.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking tin. Spread it evenly to ensure an even bake.
- Spread the cooled cream over the batter. The cream should be thick enough to stay in place and not mix with the batter.
- Arrange the peaches over the cream. The peaches should be well-drained to avoid excess moisture that could make the cake soggy.
- Pour the remaining batter over the peaches, spreading it gently to cover the fruit without disturbing the layers.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
- If desired, brush the top with beaten egg whites and sprinkle with sliced almonds. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown. This step adds a lovely crunch and enhances the presentation.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps the layers to set and makes slicing easier.
- Serve and enjoy! This cake is best enjoyed slightly chilled, bringing out the flavors of the cream and peaches.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the milk is warm but not boiling when adding it to the egg mixture to prevent curdling.
- Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If fresh peaches are not in season, canned peaches in syrup work well.
- For an extra touch, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness.
Nutritional Benefits
- This cake provides a good source of protein from the eggs and dairy, which are essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Peaches add a dose of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber, which are beneficial for your skin, immune system, and digestive health.
- Using 00 flour gives the cake a fine, delicate texture, making it easier to digest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and peaches creates a fresh, tangy, and sweet flavor profile that is irresistible.
- Texture: The cake is light and fluffy, with a creamy, rich filling that balances perfectly with the syrupy peaches. The addition of sliced almonds on top adds a delightful crunch.
- Ease: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to all levels of bakers. Even if you are new to baking, you will find this recipe easy to follow and achieve great results.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten. If you have dietary restrictions, you can make some substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute 00 flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- This cake is vegetarian, making it suitable for those who follow a vegetarian diet.
Why This Recipe Works
- The balance of acidity from the lemon and sweetness from the peaches creates a harmonious flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- The cream filling adds moisture, preventing the cake from being dry. The mascarpone or sour cream in the cream adds a rich, velvety texture.
- The use of 00 flour results in a tender crumb that enhances the cake’s delicate texture, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- The layers of batter, cream, and peaches create a beautiful cross-section when sliced, making this cake not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Conclusion
This favorite Italian cake is a delightful treat that will quickly become a staple in your home. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it perfect for any gathering, from casual family dinners to elegant celebrations. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it an ideal recipe for busy individuals who still want to impress their guests. Try this recipe, and you’ll find yourself making it every week, savoring the joy it brings with each bite.
Enjoy baking and indulging in this Italian classic! Buon appetito!
Final Thoughts
The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility. You can experiment with different fruits, such as apricots or plums, to create your own unique version. The cream can also be flavored with different extracts, like almond or vanilla, to suit your taste. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a way to bring a piece of Italy into your home and share it with your loved ones.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on this culinary journey. The result will be a delicious, crowd-pleasing cake that embodies the essence of Italian baking. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet ending to your dinner, this cake will surely bring joy and satisfaction.
Remember, the best part of baking is sharing your creations with others. So, invite your friends and family over, serve them a slice of this delectable cake, and watch their faces light up with delight. Happy baking!