Berry Chantilly Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of Chantilly cream with the fresh, vibrant flavors of mixed berries. This cake is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or any time you want to indulge in a luscious treat. Here’s everything you need to know about this exquisite dessert, from its ingredients to the step-by-step process of making it at home.
Ingredients for Berry Chantilly Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
For the Berry Filling:
- 1 ½ cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Chantilly Cream:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparing the Cake Layers:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Berry Filling:
- Mix Berries and Sugar: In a medium bowl, combine the mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the berries and let them macerate for about 15-20 minutes.
Making the Chantilly Cream:
- Whip Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Add Mascarpone and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined and smooth.
Assembling the Berry Chantilly Cake:
- Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of Chantilly cream over the top, then add a layer of the berry filling.
- Repeat: Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the process of spreading Chantilly cream and berry filling. Top with the third cake layer.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the remaining Chantilly cream over the top and sides of the cake. You can pipe some decorative swirls on top if desired.
- Garnish: Decorate the top of the cake with more fresh berries for a beautiful finish.
Tips for the Perfect Berry Chantilly Cake:
- Use Fresh Berries: Fresh, ripe berries will provide the best flavor and texture for your cake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter and even baking.
- Chill the Cake: After assembling, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.
What to Serve with Berry Chantilly Cake?
Beverages
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: The bubbles complement the lightness of the Chantilly cream and the freshness of the berries.
- Berry-Infused Lemonade: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that echoes the flavors of the cake.
- Herbal Tea: Chamomile or mint tea offers a calming balance to the sweetness of the cake.
Sides
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can complement the berry flavors and add a refreshing touch.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream can add richness and enhance the dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: Extra dollops of freshly whipped cream can be served on the side for added indulgence.
Garnishes
- Edible Flowers: Add a touch of elegance with edible flowers like pansies or violets.
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves provide a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.