Berry Chantilly Cake is a luscious and elegant dessert that has captivated dessert lovers with its light, airy texture and vibrant berry flavors. This cake combines tender layers of sponge cake, a rich mascarpone cream frosting, and an abundance of fresh berries to create a visually stunning and delicious treat. Whether for a special occasion or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, a Berry Chantilly Cake is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love Berry Chantilly Cake
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of fresh berries and light mascarpone cream frosting creates a refreshing and balanced flavor that is not overly sweet.
- Elegant Presentation: The vibrant colors of the berries and the smooth, creamy frosting make this cake a showstopper for any event.
- Versatile: Berry Chantilly Cake is perfect for various occasions, from birthdays and weddings to summer gatherings and holiday celebrations.
- Customizable: You can tailor the recipe to your preferences by using your favorite berries or adding a layer of berry syrup for extra flavor.
Ingredients and Components
The Berry Chantilly Cake is known for its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, which are achieved through several key components:
- Sponge Cake: The base of the cake is typically a light and moist sponge or chiffon cake. This type of cake is airy and absorbs the flavors of the frosting and berries beautifully.
- Mascarpone Cream Frosting: A decadent frosting made with mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, and a touch of sweetness. This frosting is rich yet light, complementing the delicate cake layers perfectly.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, are used both as a filling between the layers and as a garnish on top. The berries add a burst of freshness and natural sweetness.
- Berry Syrup (Optional): Some recipes include a berry syrup made from reduced berry juices and sugar, which is brushed onto the cake layers to enhance the berry flavor and add moisture.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Creating a Berry Chantilly Cake involves several steps, but the end result is well worth the effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delectable dessert:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups cake flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Mascarpone Cream Frosting:
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Berry Filling and Garnish:
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- Additional berries for garnish
Instructions:
- Bake the Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. 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, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Cream Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese until smooth. Add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of mascarpone cream frosting over the top, then scatter a generous amount of fresh berries over the frosting.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining mascarpone cream frosting.
- Garnish the top of the cake with additional fresh berries.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
- Slice and enjoy your Berry Chantilly Cake!