Summer Berry Ganache Drip Cake
Summer Berry Ganache Drip Cake is a delightful dessert that will impress everyone at your gatherings. With its fluffy layers of cake, rich buttercream, and a glossy chocolate ganache drip topped with fresh summer berries, it’s the perfect celebration cake for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
This cake is not just pleasing to the eye but also bursting with flavors. The combination of sweet berries and silky chocolate creates an unforgettable taste experience. Plus, making a cake like this can be a fun and rewarding activity. It’s a great way to show off your baking skills and treat your loved ones to something special.
How to Make Summer Berry Ganache Drip Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter for frosting
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream for ganache
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Red currants
- Fresh mint leaves
- Sliced cured meats (optional)
- Macarons (optional)
- Chocolate shards (optional)
- Fruit jellies (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 6-inch cake pans.
- In a bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together for 3 minutes until fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually alternate adding the flour mixture and milk. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 22–26 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely.
- To make the buttercream, beat the unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the heavy cream and vanilla. Whip until silky smooth.
- For the ganache, heat the heavy cream just before boiling, then pour it over the dark chocolate chips. Allow it to sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Cool slightly before using.
- Stack the cooled cake layers and frost them with buttercream. Smooth the sides for a polished look.
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes, then add the ganache drip over the top.
- Decorate the top with a generous mix of fresh berries, mint, and any optional extras you like.
- Chill briefly to set the decorations, then serve at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
How to Serve Summer Berry Ganache Drip Cake
Serve this stunning cake on a beautiful cake stand. It is excellent for birthdays, summer gatherings, or any special occasion where you want to celebrate with something sweet and colorful. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
How to Store Summer Berry Ganache Drip Cake
You can store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have excess ganache or buttercream, keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before using it again!
Tips to Make Summer Berry Ganache Drip Cake
- Ensure all your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; stop as soon as the flour is incorporated.
- When making the ganache, use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- For a cleaner drip, let the ganache cool slightly before applying it to the cake.
Variation
You can customize this cake by using different fruits based on the season. Try peaches or strawberries in the summer or apples and nuts in the fall. You can also color the buttercream with food coloring for a festive touch.
FAQs
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unassembled cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of dark chocolate chips for the ganache?
You can use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter ganache.
