As the weather warms and flowers bloom, our Spring Wine Club Release Party offered a perfect stage to introduce our 2023 Rosy Cheeks. Paired with a delightful treat we called “Rosy Cakes,” this pairing captured the essence of spring with its light, refreshing flavors and elegant presentation. Here’s how to recreate this enchanting appetizer at home.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup cake flour
  • ⅞ cup white sugar, divided
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
  • 6 eggs, separated
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

  • 1-½ cups heavy whipping cream
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Candied Limes:

  • 2 limes
  • 1 cup sugar

Tools Needed:

  • Mixing bowls, electric mixer, 6-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper, mandolin, saucepan, wire rack, and baking sheet or additional parchment paper.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until firm peaks form.
  • In a separate bowl, whip the egg yolks with half the sugar, salt, vanilla, honey, and water until light and fluffy.
  • Fold half of the egg whites into the yolk mixture, then sift in the flour and baking powder, folding gently.
  • Incorporate the vegetable oil, then fold in the remaining egg whites.
  • Pour into the prepared pan and bake until a tester comes out clean.

2. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:

  • Whip the cream with sugar and vanilla until it forms soft peaks. Adjust sweetness as desired.

3. Prepare the Candied Limes:

  • Slice limes thinly and blanch in boiling water, then shock in an ice bath.
  • Dissolve sugar in water over medium heat, add lime slices, and simmer until translucent. Dry on a wire rack.

4. Assemble the Cake:

  • Cut the cooled cake into circles using a ring mold.
  • Top each with whipped cream, then a candied lime slice for garnish. Optionally, add a zest of fresh lime.

The Rosy Cakes, with their spongy texture, creamy topping, and a tangy touch of candied limes, are a symphony of flavors that dance beautifully with the fruity notes of our Rosy Cheeks Rosé. This pairing is not just a treat for the palate but a celebration of the season’s joy and renewal. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet moment, these cakes promise to add a touch of sweetness to your spring!