Dive into the Cherry and Berry Crumble Cake with Meringue, a dessert that masterfully combines the tartness of cherries and the sweetness of berries with a fluffy meringue, all layered between tender, crumbly pastry. This classic cake offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal companion to your coffee break. Its unique combination of a soft pastry base, a tart fruit filling, and a sweet meringue topping makes every slice a memorable experience.
Why You’ll Love This:
This cake brings together the best of all worlds – the comforting texture of crumble pastry, the tangy kick of cherry jam and berries, and the light, sweet meringue. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create a dessert that feels both homey and indulgent. This cake is not just delicious; it’s a conversation starter, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Perfect Occasion:
Whether you’re looking to add a special touch to a casual coffee gathering or seeking a delightful dessert for a weekend treat, this Cherry and Berry Crumble Cake is up to the task. It’s versatile enough for any setting, from a quiet afternoon at home to a bustling party, where it’s sure to disappear quickly.
Decoration Tips:
Before serving, enhance the cake’s appearance and flavor by garnishing it with fresh berries. This not only adds a burst of color but also introduces a fresh texture contrast. A sprinkle of powdered sugar over the meringue layer can also elevate the visual appeal, making it look as exquisite as it tastes.
Ingredients:
- Pastry Dough: Mix 500g of all-purpose flour with ¾ cup of sugar, 4-5 egg yolks, and 200g of butter to form a crumbly dough. Split into three parts, adding 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to one-third. Freeze each portion.
- Filling: Prepare with about 200g of homemade cherry jam and a generous handful of mixed berries.
- Meringue: Whip 4-5 egg whites into stiff peaks, gradually incorporating ¼ cup of sugar, and fold in a tablespoon of cornstarch.
Method:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and line a 20x20cm baking pan with parchment paper.
- Grate one portion of the frozen dough into the bottom of the pan. Evenly spread the cherry jam and scatter the berries over it, followed by grating the cocoa-infused dough on top. Spread the meringue over this layer and finish by grating the last portion of dough on top. Optionally, add more fresh berries for decoration.
- Bake for approximately 45 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, cover lightly with parchment paper to prevent over-browning.
Serve this Cherry and Berry Crumble Cake as a splendid finish to your meal or a delightful accompaniment to your afternoon coffee. Enjoy the harmonious blend of textures and flavors that make every bite a joy.
