Creamy Berry Cake

A Creamy Berry Cake is a delightful dessert featuring light, fluffy layers of cake, a smooth cream filling, and fresh, juicy berries. This cake is perfect for summer or any occasion where you want something refreshing and indulgent.

Creamy Berry Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional for a citrusy touch)

For the Cream Filling:

• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Berry Filling:

• 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For Garnish (optional):

• Extra fresh berries
• Powdered sugar
• Mint leaves

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract (and lemon zest if using).

5. Add milk: Gradually add the milk to the mixture and beat until well combined.

6. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.

7. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Berry Filling

1. Prepare the berries: In a medium bowl, toss the mixed berries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release their juices.

2. Optional step for thicker filling: If you'd like a thicker berry filling, transfer the berries and their juices to a saucepan. Stir in the cornstarch and cook over medium heat until thickened (about 3-4 minutes). Let cool before using.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Filling

1. Whip the cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

2. Mix cream cheese and sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

3. Fold in the whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the cream filling on top.

2. Add berries: Spoon the berry filling evenly over the cream layer.

3. Top with the second layer: Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining cream filling over the top and sides of the cake.

Step 5: Garnish (Optional)

1. Decorate with fresh berries: Garnish the cake with extra fresh berries on top and around the edges.
2. Dust with powdered sugar: For a refined finish, lightly dust the top with powdered sugar. Add mint leaves for a fresh touch.

Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the cream to set. This Creamy Berry Cake is a beautiful and refreshing dessert, perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or any special gathering. Enjoy!