Name: Berry Chantilly Cake Recipe: Elegant and Flavorful
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: Vanilla Cake:; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk; Mascarpone Frosting:; 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; Berry Filling and Garnish:; 2 cups mixed fresh berries; 1/4 cup seedless raspberry jam; Optional: Extra berries (edible flowers); Suggested Pairings: Sparkling wine (coffee)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Berry Chantilly Cake is a stunning dessert, perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or special occasions. This elegant cake, featuring layers of moist vanilla cake, creamy mascarpone frosting, and vibrant fresh berries, delivers a delicate, sweet-tart flavor with a light, luxurious texture. Presented on a white ceramic cake stand, optionally garnished with fresh berries or edible flowers, this Berry Chantilly Cake recipe offers a vibrant, sophisticated aesthetic that elevates any event. This recipe provides a simple homemade version with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dessert that brings festive, berry-filled joy to any table.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cake:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

Mascarpone Frosting:

8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Berry Filling and Garnish:

2 cups mixed fresh berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1/4 cup seedless raspberry jam
Optional: Extra berries, edible flowers

Serving:

Suggested Accompaniments: Whipped cream, coffee
Suggested Pairings: Sparkling wine, herbal tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic cake stand
Suggested Equipment: Two 9-inch round cake pans, parchment paper, mixing bowls, electric mixer, spatula, whisk, measuring cups/spoons, knife

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
Make Cake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla extract. Alternately add flour mixture and milk in three additions, starting and ending with flour, mixing until just combined.
Bake Cakes: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Mascarpone Frosting: In a large bowl, beat mascarpone and cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until combined. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks, then gently fold into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and creamy.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the frosting and adjust with a tablespoon more powdered sugar for sweetness or a splash of vanilla for flavor to ensure a balanced taste.
Prepare Berry Filling: Rinse and pat dry mixed berries. Slice strawberries if using. In a small bowl, warm raspberry jam with 1 tbsp water until spreadable.
Assemble Cake: Place one cake layer on a white ceramic cake stand. Spread a thin layer of jam, followed by a layer of frosting, then arrange half the mixed berries. Top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining mascarpone frosting.
Decorate: Arrange remaining berries on top of the cake. Optionally garnish with extra berries or edible flowers for a vibrant look.
Chill (Optional): Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to set the frosting.
Serve: Slice and serve on plates with whipped cream, coffee, sparkling wine, or herbal tea.

Tips for Better Berry Chantilly Cake

Use room-temperature ingredients for the smoothest frosting and fluffiest cake.
Taste the frosting before assembling to balance sweetness and creaminess; adjust sparingly.
Ensure cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and vibrant presentation.
Present on a white ceramic cake stand to highlight the creamy frosting and colorful berries.
Make ahead: Bake cakes and prepare frosting up to 1 day in advance; store cakes wrapped in plastic in the fridge and frosting in an airtight container, then assemble before serving.
Slice strawberries thinly for even layers and easier slicing.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with edible flowers or extra berries for a festive, elegant pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Berry Chantilly Cake: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the cake and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Vegan Berry Chantilly Cake: Replace butter with vegan butter, eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), milk with plant-based milk, mascarpone and cream cheese with vegan alternatives, and heavy cream with coconut cream.
Low-Sugar Berry Chantilly Cake: Reduce granulated sugar to 1 cup in the cake and use 1/2 cup powdered sugar in the frosting; use sugar-free jam.
Chocolate Berry Chantilly Cake: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate twist.
Lemon Berry Chantilly Cake: Add 1 tbsp lemon zest to the cake batter and 1 tbsp lemon juice to the frosting for a citrusy note.
Single-Layer Berry Chantilly Cake: Bake in one 9-inch pan and cut the frosting recipe in half for a simpler version.
Mixed Fruit Chantilly Cake: Replace berries with sliced peaches or mangoes for a tropical variation.
Nutty Chantilly Cake: Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped almonds or hazelnuts between layers for added crunch.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store the assembled cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before slicing.
Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before assembling.
Serve chilled or slightly cool for the best creamy, refreshing texture.
Use as a centerpiece dessert for celebrations or gatherings.
Pair with sparkling wine or herbal tea to complement the sweet-tart flavors.
Presented on a white ceramic cake stand with garnishes for a vibrant, elegant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 12 servings (1 slice each):

Calories: 420 kcal
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 240mg
Total Carbohydrates: 46g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 6g
Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 20% Daily Value
Calcium: 10% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegan options reduce cholesterol). Moderate in calories; enjoy as a treat.

Conclusion

This Berry Chantilly Cake recipe delivers an elegant, flavorful dessert perfect for celebrations or special occasions, transforming simple ingredients into a luxurious favorite. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a go-to. The creamy frosting and fresh berries delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing festive charm.