Experience the joy of summer with this Summertime Delight Mixed Berry and Vanilla Cream Layer Cake, a vibrant and refreshing dessert that combines moist vanilla sponge with luscious vanilla whipped cream and a generous topping of fresh berries. This cake is as delightful to look at as it is to eat, with its bright colors and juicy flavors making it a perfect centerpiece for any summer celebration.
Why You’ll Love This:
This cake is the epitome of a summer dessert. The airy vanilla sponge provides a light base that complements the rich, fluffy vanilla whipped cream. Topped with a colorful medley of fresh berries, each bite bursts with a mix of sweet and slightly tart flavors. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy, making it ideal for both novice bakers and experienced pastry chefs looking to delight their guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect Occasion:
This cake is perfect for any summer occasion—be it a backyard barbecue, a family reunion, or a casual picnic. It’s also elegant enough for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or bridal showers. Wherever it’s served, this cake promises to be a refreshing treat that’s sure to cool down a warm day.
Decoration Tips:
For a truly stunning presentation, arrange the berries on top of the cake in a decorative pattern, such as concentric circles or a random, bountiful pile. Include a variety of colors and types of berries to maximize visual appeal. Garnish with a few edible flowers for an added touch of elegance. If available, a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds a magical touch, enhancing the natural beauty of the berries.
Ingredients:
- Vanilla Sponge Cake:
- 300ml milk (almond or choice)
- 30ml white vinegar
- 270g cane or castor sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 140ml oil (sunflower or vegetable)
- 280g all-purpose flour
- 20g cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Whipped Cream Frosting:
- 240ml whipping cream (non-dairy)
- 25g powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Toppings:
- 1 cup fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Seasonal edible flowers
1. Prepare the Sponge Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix warm milk with vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle. Add oil, vanilla extract, and sugar, whisking until the sugar is dissolved.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using an electric mixer until well blended.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and 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 1 hour, then transfer to a cooling rack.
2. Whip the Cream:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip using a mixer with a whisk attachment until stiff peaks form. Keep the whipped cream refrigerated until ready to use.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top, then scatter some of the mixed berries.
- Place the second cake layer on top and cover with the remaining whipped cream. Decoratively arrange the remaining berries and edible flowers on top.
Enjoy this beautifully refreshing Summertime Delight Mixed Berry and Vanilla Cream Layer Cake, a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the season!
