Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, chilled
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, strained
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1.5 lbs fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions:
- Beat eggs and sugar over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) until warm to the touch. Remove from heat and whip on high speed for 5-8 minutes until the batter is pale, thick, and forms a ribbon.
- Gently fold in the sifted all-purpose flour using a spatula, ensuring the air bubbles remain intact.
- Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Pour batter into a lined 8-inch springform pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top springs back. Cool completely.
- Beat mascarpone, Greek yogurt, and powdered sugar until velvety and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and 1 tsp lemon juice until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to create a stable mousse.
- Simmer water, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp lemon juice until dissolved. Brush lightly over the cooled sponge cake.
- Line the inner edges of the springform pan with strawberry halves, cut side facing the pan.
- Spread half of the cream at the bottom, pressing firmly against the strawberry walls, then layer with remaining cake and cream as directed.