If you’re craving a cake that combines light, fluffy layers with rich, creamy frosting and fresh, juicy berries, look no further than the Berry Chantilly Cake. This delightful dessert has become a beloved choice for celebrations and special occasions. The cake features tender vanilla layers, a luxurious mascarpone and cream cheese frosting, and an abundance of fresh berries that provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
History and Origin of Berry Chantilly Cake
The Berry Chantilly Cake owes much of its popularity to Whole Foods, where it first gained fame thanks to baker Chaya Conrad. Inspired by a family recipe, this cake quickly became a hit in New Orleans and soon spread across the United States. The unique combination of rich mascarpone, light whipped cream, and fresh berries sets it apart from other cakes, making it a favorite at weddings, graduations, and summer gatherings.
Unlike regular whipped cream, the Chantilly cream used in this cake incorporates mascarpone and cream cheese, creating a frosting that is both thicker and richer, perfect for holding the layers together. This distinctive cream, often confused with sweetened whipped cream, is what gives the Berry Chantilly Cake its signature taste and texture.
What Makes a Berry Chantilly Cake Unique?
Berry Chantilly Cake stands out for several reasons:
- Rich, Creamy Frosting: The frosting, made with a blend of mascarpone and cream cheese, offers a stable yet indulgent texture that complements the cake’s lightness.
- Fresh Berries: The inclusion of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of flavor and a visually appealing pop of color.
- Versatility: It can be easily adapted with different fruits or additional flavorings, such as lemon zest or a splash of liqueur.
Ingredients for Berry Chantilly Cake
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need to create a perfect Berry Chantilly Cake:
- For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- For the Frosting:
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the Filling:
- 2/3 cup seedless strawberry jam
- 2 cups each of fresh blueberries, sliced strawberries, and raspberries
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Cake
Preparing the Cake Layers
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 22-26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before slicing each layer in half horizontally.
Making the Chantilly Cream Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and mascarpone until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, continuing to beat until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Carefully fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to create a light, fluffy frosting. Avoid over-mixing to keep the texture smooth.
Preparing the Berry Filling
- Mix the strawberry jam with 2 tablespoons of warm water to thin it slightly, creating a spreadable consistency.
- Set aside fresh berries for layering and decoration.
Assembling the Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam over the surface, followed by a thick layer of Chantilly cream frosting.
- Add a generous handful of mixed berries over the frosting layer.
- Repeat with the remaining layers, alternating between jam, frosting, and berries.
- Cover the entire cake with a final layer of frosting. Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create decorative swirls on top, and garnish with whole berries.
Decorating Tips and Variations
- Decorating Ideas: Consider using a variety of fresh berries and mint leaves for a vibrant finish. Piping borders or rosettes around the edges can add a professional touch.
- Flavor Variations: Add a splash of Grand Marnier, rum, or Chambord to the jam for an adult twist. Alternatively, mix in citrus zest, chocolate, or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.
FAQs About Berry Chantilly Cake
- How long does a Chantilly cake last?
A Chantilly cake can last up to four days in the refrigerator. However, the berries may begin to break down after a couple of days, affecting the texture of the frosting. - What’s the difference between Chantilly cream and whipped cream?
Chantilly cream is made with mascarpone and cream cheese, resulting in a thicker, more stable frosting, whereas whipped cream is lighter and less stable. - Does Chantilly cake need to be refrigerated?
Yes, due to the fresh berries and whipped cream, this cake should be kept refrigerated to maintain its freshness. - Can you make Chantilly cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers and prepare the frosting a day ahead. Store them separately and assemble just before serving. - What is the difference between Chantilly Cake and Gentilly Cake?
A Gentilly cake often uses buttermilk instead of regular milk in the batter and includes a slightly different cream cheese and mascarpone frosting.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for any celebration, especially during the summer when fresh berries are in season. Serve it with a chilled glass of sparkling wine or a cup of tea for a delightful treat.
For additional inspiration, check out these cake decorating tips, which offer creative ideas for frosting and finishing touches to make your Berry Chantilly Cake look stunning.
By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious and visually appealing Berry Chantilly Cake that will impress your guests and satisfy their sweet cravings!