Grandma’s Best Berry Cake

There’s something magical about Grandma’s Best Berry Cake. The rich history, the nostalgic aroma, and the unbeatable flavor transport us back to those cherished moments in the kitchen with grandma. This berry cake, bursting with juicy cherries and topped with a creamy, tangy layer, is the epitome of comfort and tradition. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will soon become a family favorite.

A Slice of History

The tradition of berry cakes dates back centuries, with grandmothers passing down their secret recipes through generations. These cakes, often made with simple, readily available ingredients, were a staple in many households. The combination of dried and fresh or frozen cherries gives this cake a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a timeless classic.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 3 eggs
  • A pinch of salt
  • 150 grams of sugar (4/5 cup)
  • 150 ml vegetable oil (3/4 cup)
  • 150 ml milk (3/4 cup)
  • 300 grams of flour (2 cups)
  • 15 grams of baking powder (3 teaspoons)
  • 100 grams dried cherries (1/2 cup)

For the Topping:

  • 1 egg
  • 100 grams yoghurt (5 tbsp)
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 tbsp corn starch
  • 50 grams of fresh or frozen cherries

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Ensuring the oven is at the right temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect bake.

Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Beat the Eggs and Salt: In a mixing bowl, beat the 3 eggs with a pinch of salt until fluffy. This step incorporates air, making the cake light and airy.
  2. Add Sugar: Gradually add 150 grams of sugar, beating continuously until the mixture becomes light and airy. This process helps dissolve the sugar completely, ensuring a smooth batter.
  3. Mix in Oil and Milk: Slowly pour in 150 ml of vegetable oil and 150 ml of milk, mixing until fully combined. This step adds moisture and richness to the cake.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift in 300 grams of flour and 15 grams of baking powder. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix with care.
  5. Add Dried Cherries: Fold in the 100 grams of dried cherries. These will provide bursts of flavor and texture throughout the cake.

Prepare the Topping

  1. Whisk Topping Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 egg, 100 grams of yoghurt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of corn starch. The yoghurt adds a tangy flavor, while the corn starch ensures the topping sets nicely.
  2. Add Fresh or Frozen Cherries: Gently fold in the 50 grams of fresh or frozen cherries. These cherries will bake into the topping, creating a delightful contrast to the cake below.

Assemble the Cake

  1. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the prepared cake batter into a greased and floured baking pan. This step prevents sticking and makes for easy removal after baking.
  2. Spread the Topping: Evenly spread the topping mixture over the cake batter. This ensures a uniform layer of topping in every bite.

Bake

  1. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.
  2. Cool and Decorate: Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before removing it. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Enjoy!

Serve your delicious, moist berry cake slightly warm or at room temperature. This cake is perfect on its own, but can also be paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 290
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 22g

This delightful Grandma’s Best Berry Cake is not only a nostalgic treat but also a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed at any time. Its moist texture and rich flavors are sure to impress your family and friends, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings and celebrations. The blend of dried and fresh cherries adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist, while the yogurt topping provides a creamy contrast that elevates each bite.