TWO-TIER VANILLA BERRY CAKE
The Two-Tier Vanilla Berry Cake is a stunning dessert that perfectly combines the rich flavors of vanilla and the freshness of berries. This cake is not just beautiful but also delicious, making it a great choice for celebrations, birthdays, and special occasions. The two layers create a delightful visual impact, while the creamy whipped frosting and fresh fruits make each bite heavenly.
Why Make This Recipe
You should consider making this Two-Tier Vanilla Berry Cake because it is a show-stopping dessert that impresses everyone. With its light and fluffy texture, paired with fresh berries, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness. Additionally, it’s a versatile cake that you can customize with your favorite fruits, making it suitable for any event. Plus, baking this cake can be a fun activity, giving you the chance to bring family and friends together.
How to Make Two-Tier Vanilla Berry Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 21⁄2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temp
- 1 1⁄2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temp
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
- 3 cups (720ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 4 tbsp cream cheese for stability
- Fresh sliced strawberries
- Fresh raspberries
- Optional: thin layer of strawberry jam
- Whole strawberries (halved)
- Raspberries
- One maraschino or fresh cherry for the topper
- Mint leaves (optional for freshness)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round pans for the bottom tier and two 6-inch round pans for the top tier.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the milk with the sour cream. Begin alternating adding the dry ingredients and the milk mixture into the butter mixture until everything is well combined.
- Divide the cake batter into the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely.
- Whip the cold cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. If you are using cream cheese, gently mix it in until smooth and stable.
- Trim the domes off the cooled cakes to create flat surfaces. Place the first layer of each tier on a cake board or circle.
- Spread a layer of whipped cream and top with sliced strawberries and raspberries. Place the second layer of each cake on top.
- Apply a thin crumb coat of whipped cream around the outside of the cake. Chill for about 30 minutes.
- Frost both tiers smoothly with the whipped cream.
- Use a small round tip or open star tip to pipe decorative designs around the edges of each tier.
- Carefully stack the 6-inch tier on top of the 8-inch tier, using dowels or straws in the bottom tier for support.
- Decorate the edges with whole strawberries, halved strawberries, raspberries, and add a cherry on top.
- Refrigerate the cake and let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
How to Serve Two-Tier Vanilla Berry Cake
Serve the Two-Tier Vanilla Berry Cake as a centerpiece at celebrations or gatherings. Use a sharp knife to slice the cake and plate the pieces gracefully. It pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream. For an elegant touch, garnish each slice with additional fresh berries or mint leaves.
How to Store Two-Tier Vanilla Berry Cake
To store the Two-Tier Vanilla Berry Cake, keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within three days of baking. If you have any leftover slices, make sure to cover them well to maintain their freshness.
Tips to Make Two-Tier Vanilla Berry Cake
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients.
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for extra volume.
- If you want a stronger strawberry flavor, you can add a layer of strawberry jam between the cake layers.
Variation
You can change the flavor of the cake by using different extracts like almond or lemon, or by replacing vanilla beans for the extract. Feel free to swap out the berries for other fruits like blueberries, peaches, or even mango for a tropical twist.
FAQs
-
Can I use cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch?
Yes, you can use a vanilla cake mix as a shortcut. Just follow the package instructions and proceed with the assembly and decoration steps. -
How do I achieve a smooth frosting look?
Use a bench scraper to smooth the frosting around the cake after applying the crumb coat. Chilling the cake will also help make the frosting easier to work with. -
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance and keep them wrapped well in the fridge. Frost them on the day you plan to serve for the best results.
