This Berry Layer Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines soft, fluffy cake layers with a tangy berry compote and a rich, creamy frosting. It’s topped with fresh mixed berries for a beautiful presentation, making it perfect for celebrations or any special occasion. Follow this detailed recipe to create a delicious and visually impressive cake that will wow your guests!
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers:
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups (310g)
- Baking Powder: 2 1/2 teaspoons
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (225g), softened
- Granulated Sugar: 1 1/2 cups (300g)
- Eggs: 4 large
- Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml)
- Vegetable Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon
For the Berry Compote:
- Mixed Berries: 1 cup (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (50g)
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
For the Frosting:
- Unsalted Butter: 1 1/2 cups (340g), softened
- Powdered Sugar: 4 cups (500g)
- Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup (60ml)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: A pinch
For the Decoration:
- Fresh Mixed Berries: (raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Cake Pans: Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent the cakes from sticking and to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure the mixture is smooth.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined.
- Add Oil: Stir in the vegetable oil until the batter is smooth and well combined. Do not overmix to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
- Divide the Batter: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cakes fully ensures they will not melt the frosting when assembled.
Step 4: Prepare the Berry Compote
- Cook the Berries: In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Cool: Remove from heat and let the compote cool completely. The compote should be thick enough to spread between the cake layers without running.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
- Beat the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth texture.
- Add Cream and Vanilla: Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed until the frosting is light, fluffy, and easily spreadable.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the cake, followed by a layer of the cooled berry compote. Repeat with the second layer.
- Top with Final Layer: Place the final cake layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to frost the top and sides of the cake, creating a smooth, even finish.
Step 7: Decorate
- Add Fresh Berries: Generously top the cake with fresh mixed berries, arranging them artfully for a beautiful and eye-catching presentation.
Step 8: Serve
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cake and enjoy! This berry layer cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering where you want to impress with a fresh and fruity dessert.
Tips
- Adjust Sugar in Compote: Depending on the natural sweetness of your berries, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar in the compote. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Make Ahead: The cake layers can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Assemble the cake on the day of serving for best results.
- Room Temperature Serving: For optimal taste and texture, let the cake come to room temperature before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: Serves 12
- Calories: Approximately 450 per slice
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 40 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
This Berry Layer Cake combines the best of light, fluffy cake with the tangy burst of fresh berries and the richness of creamy frosting. It’s an elegant dessert that’s sure to be the highlight of any event. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and stunning presentation of this delightful cake!
