Chantilly Berry Cake

There’s something truly special about a Chantilly Berry Cake that makes it the perfect centerpiece for any celebration. I still remember the first time I was introduced to this delightful dessert at a summer garden party. The visual splendor of the layered cake adorned with vibrant berries was enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it also offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that makes every bite a celebration. Imagine the fluffy layers of cake, the smooth, creamy frosting, and the burst of freshness from the berries. It’s a combination that never fails to impress, whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or just a sunny afternoon treat. Preparing a Chantilly Berry Cake fills your kitchen with warmth and joy, and each slice tells a delicious story of love and care. This cake is not just about taste; it’s about bringing people together to share in the magic of good food and good company.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chantilly Berry Cake

The ingredients for a Chantilly Berry Cake are simple yet effective, creating a delicious dessert that everyone can enjoy. Each component plays a vital role in contributing to the cake’s flavor, texture, and overall appeal. The key players include the fresh berries that add brightness and natural sweetness, and the creamy layers that bring everything together.

• 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and texture.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Aids in leavening for a lighter cake.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the flavors of the cake.
• 1 ½ cups butter, softened: Adds richness and flavor to the cake layers.
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps it to achieve that lovely golden color.
• 6 large egg whites, room temperature: Provides structure while creating a light texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a sweet, aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Adds a unique, nutty flavor to the cake.
• 1 ½ cups whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess.
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Enhances the cake’s texture by reacting with the baking soda.
• 16 ounces mascarpone cheese: Creates a smooth, creamy filling.
• 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature: Adds richness to the frosting.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Lightens the frosting and makes it airy.
• 5 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract: Complements the frosting with additional flavor.
• 2 cups fresh berries (raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries): The star of the show, providing freshness and color.

Step by Step Guide for Chantilly Berry Cake

Making a Chantilly Berry Cake is a rewarding process that combines baking with artistry. As you gather your ingredients, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and textures. Each step brings you closer to a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the steps to create this stunning dessert.

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the cake bakes evenly right from the beginning. Next, prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by spraying them with cooking spray and dusting them lightly with flour. This step is crucial to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This process aerates the dry ingredients, helping to create a light cake. Set this mixture aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy, which should take about one to two minutes. The texture should become smooth and pale in color.
4. Add in the granulated sugar and continue to beat on medium-high speed for about three to five minutes, until the mixture is white and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the butter, contributing to a light cake.
5. Now, add the egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The batter will gradually become smoother and richer.
6. Next, pour in the vanilla extract, milk, sour cream, and vinegar into the butter mixture. Mix on medium speed until everything is well combined. You should see a glossy batter forming.
7. Now, gently fold in the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a denser cake. You want to maintain that fluffy texture.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared cake pans. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean.
9. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
10. While your cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and cream cheese. Using the paddle attachment on your stand mixer, beat until creamy and smooth. This will serve as the base for your frosting.
11. Slowly add the heavy cream while mixing on low speed. This helps to create a light and airy frosting. Once fully combined, add in the powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat on medium speed until smooth, adjusting the consistency as needed.
12. On a cake stand or plate, begin assembling your Chantilly Berry Cake. Place one cooled cake layer on the stand, spread a generous layer of the creamy filling on top, and add a layer of fresh berries. Repeat with the second layer, and once the final layer is added, frost the sides and top of the cake evenly.
13. If desired, pipe some of the remaining frosting around the edges for a decorative touch. Finally, garnish with additional berries on top for that extra pop of color. Chill the decorated cake in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips for Success

Creating a stunning Chantilly Berry Cake is a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results possible.

• Storage: Keep leftover cake covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It can last for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to three months. Thaw before frosting.
• Pairing: Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.
• Variations: Experiment with different flavored extracts or add lemon zest to the batter for a citrus twist.
• Presentation: Use a mix of berries for a colorful and appealing look. This elevates the cake’s presentation.

Serve This Chantilly Berry Cake With

This Chantilly Berry Cake can be enjoyed in a variety of settings and paired with several delightful accompaniments:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of the cake.
• Tea or Coffee: A warm beverage enhances the experience, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream adds extra indulgence.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can enhance the cake’s creaminess.
• Seasonal Salads: Pair with a light green salad topped with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Celebratory Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special gathering where you want to impress guests.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chantilly Berry Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece that brings people together. Its light, fluffy layers combined with creamy frosting and fresh berries create a memorable experience for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this cake; it offers a sense of accomplishment and joy, and I can promise it will be a hit with family and friends alike.

Chantilly Berry Cake

The ultimate dessert for any occasion, this Chantilly Berry Cake combines light, fluffy layers with creamy frosting and fresh berries. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet treat, it's sure to impress your guests.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 1/3 cups cups All-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons teaspoons Baking powder
• ½ teaspoon teaspoon Baking soda
• 2 teaspoons teaspoons Salt
• 1 ½ cups cups Butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups cups Granulated sugar
• 6 large Egg whites, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon teaspoon Almond extract (optional)
• 1 ½ cups cups Whole milk
• ½ cup cups Sour cream
• 2 tablespoons tablespoons White vinegar
• 16 ounces ounces Mascarpone cheese
• 16 ounces ounces Cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup cup Heavy cream
• 5 cups cups Powdered sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons teaspoons Vanilla
• ½ teaspoon teaspoon Almond extract
• 2 cups cups Fresh berries (raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries)

Equipment

• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the cake bakes evenly right from the beginning. Next, prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by spraying them with cooking spray and dusting them lightly with flour. This step is crucial to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This process aerates the dry ingredients, helping to create a light cake. Set this mixture aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy, which should take about one to two minutes. The texture should become smooth and pale in color.
4. Add in the granulated sugar and continue to beat on medium-high speed for about three to five minutes, until the mixture is white and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the butter, contributing to a light cake.
5. Now, add the egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The batter will gradually become smoother and richer.
6. Next, pour in the vanilla extract, milk, sour cream, and vinegar into the butter mixture. Mix on medium speed until everything is well combined. You should see a glossy batter forming.
7. Now, gently fold in the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a denser cake. You want to maintain that fluffy texture.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared cake pans. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean.
9. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
10. While your cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and cream cheese. Using the paddle attachment on your stand mixer, beat until creamy and smooth. This will serve as the base for your frosting.
11. Slowly add the heavy cream while mixing on low speed. This helps to create a light and airy frosting. Once fully combined, add in the powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat on medium speed until smooth, adjusting the consistency as needed.
12. On a cake stand or plate, begin assembling your Chantilly Berry Cake. Place one cooled cake layer on the stand, spread a generous layer of the creamy filling on top, and add a layer of fresh berries. Repeat with the second layer, and once the final layer is added, frost the sides and top of the cake evenly.
13. If desired, pipe some of the remaining frosting around the edges for a decorative touch. Finally, garnish with additional berries on top for that extra pop of color. Chill the decorated cake in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

• Storage: Keep leftover cake covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It can last for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to three months. Thaw before frosting.
• Pairing: Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.
• Variations: Experiment with different flavored extracts or add lemon zest to the batter for a citrus twist.
• Presentation: Use a mix of berries for a colorful and appealing look. This elevates the cake's presentation.

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Meet Molly Brooks

I love mixing nostalgic flavors with fun, fresh twists. My goal is to make cooking the best part of your day. I loved making this recipe, and I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home!