Delight in the flavors of summer with this Polish Summer Fruit Cake. This light and refreshing cake showcases the natural sweetness of seasonal fruits, such as berries and stone fruits, atop a delicate sponge cake. It’s a perfect dessert to enjoy during warm summer days or as a centerpiece for special occasions.
Ingredients:
For the sponge cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
For the filling and topping:
- Assorted fresh summer fruits (such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, peaches, or plums)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This may take around 5-7 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, folding gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once the cake has cooled, prepare the whipped cream topping. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Carefully slice the cooled cake in half horizontally to create two layers.
- Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Arrange the fresh fruits over the whipped cream layer. Feel free to be creative with your arrangement.
- Place the second layer of the cake on top and gently press down.
- Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on top of the second layer.
- Garnish with additional fresh fruits and mint leaves, if desired.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
