How to Make Spanish Tarta de Fresas con Crema: Strawberry Cream Cake

• What-is-Tarta-de-Fresas-con-Crema
• Ingredients-for-Tarta-de-Fresas-con-Crema
• Step-by-Step-Guide-to-Making-Tarta-de-Fresas
• Tips-for-Perfect-Tarta-de-Fresas-con-Crema
• Why-You-Should-Try-Tarta-de-Fresas

1. What is Tarta de Fresas con Crema?

Tarta de Fresas con Crema, or Spanish Strawberry Cream Cake, is a beloved dessert in Spain, often enjoyed during special occasions such as birthdays, celebrations, and even festive seasons like summer. This light and refreshing cake combines fresh strawberries with a creamy custard-like filling, all placed atop a light sponge base. It’s a dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, offering a delightful treat that’s both visually stunning and absolutely delicious. If you’re a fan of strawberries and cream, this cake is a must-try!

Barcelona Wine Bar

RestonFairfax CountyVirginia

12023 Town Square St, Reston, VA 20190, USA

1.1 The Origin of Tarta de Fresas

The origins of Tarta de Fresas con Crema can be traced to Spain, where strawberries are in season during spring and early summer. This dessert embodies the essence of Spanish pastry, featuring fresh seasonal fruits and creamy fillings. While it’s a common fixture in Spanish bakeries, it’s also a favorite homemade treat for Spanish families, often served as a showstopper dessert at gatherings and celebrations.

Condado

Kings CountyNew York

444 Mother Gaston Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11212, USA

2. Ingredients for Tarta de Fresas con Crema

To create the best Tarta de Fresas con Crema, you’ll need the following ingredients. It’s important to use fresh, high-quality strawberries for the best flavor. The cake itself is made with a simple sponge cake base, while the creamy filling is rich and smooth.

2.1 For the Sponge Cake

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

2.2 For the Creamy Filling

• 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese)
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)

2.3 For the Strawberry Topping

• 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons of strawberry jam (optional, for glazing)

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tarta de Fresas

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious dessert!

3.1 Preparing the Sponge Cake Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is thick and pale. This may take around 5 minutes using an electric mixer. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together, then gently fold them into the egg mixture until fully incorporated.

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan.

3.2 Making the Creamy Filling

While the cake is cooling, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks. Add the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, then continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and thick. Be careful not to overwhip the cream, as it should remain light and airy. Set the filling aside in the fridge to keep it chilled until you’re ready to assemble the cake.

3.3 Assembling the Tarta de Fresas

Once the cake has cooled, slice it into two even layers. Place the bottom layer on a serving platter. Spread half of the creamy filling over the first layer of cake. Arrange a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the cream. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process with the remaining cream and strawberries.

3.4 Finishing Touches

For a glossy finish, gently heat the strawberry jam in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until it becomes liquid. Brush the jam over the top layer of strawberries to add a beautiful glaze. Let the cake chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Tips for Perfect Tarta de Fresas con Crema

To ensure your Tarta de Fresas con Crema turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

4.1 Use Fresh Strawberries

Fresh, ripe strawberries are the star of this dessert, so make sure to choose the best quality fruit. Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and sweet. Avoid using overripe strawberries, as they may not hold up well when sliced and could affect the overall texture of the cake.

4.2 Make the Cake Ahead of Time

If you’re preparing the Tarta de Fresas for a special occasion, you can make the sponge cake in advance. It keeps well in an airtight container for up to two days. Just assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it to ensure the filling stays fresh.

4.3 Keep the Cake Chilled

To maintain the creamy texture of the filling and keep the cake looking its best, it’s important to chill the tarta for a few hours before serving. This will also help the cake firm up slightly, making it easier to slice cleanly.

5. Why You Should Try Tarta de Fresas

Tarta de Fresas con Crema is a delightful and light dessert that brings the best of Spanish flavors to your table. The combination of a soft sponge cake, rich creamy filling, and fresh strawberries makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving something sweet, this dessert is sure to impress.

For more delicious Spanish recipes and kitchen essentials, visit Rubi Spanish Table for the best products and recommendations to enhance your cooking experience.