Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the summer sun streaming through the window, the idea of creating a Berry Chantilly Cake danced in my mind. This delightful summer dessert, with fluffy layers and creamy mascarpone frosting, is perfect for celebrating warm days and cherished moments with loved ones. Imagine a cake that not only looks stunning with its vibrant array of fresh berries but is also incredibly easy to make—a true crowd-pleaser for your next gathering. With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a luscious treat that boasts both lightness and indulgence, prioritizing fresh ingredients that elevate each bite. Curious how to whip up this gem and wow your friends? Let’s dive in! Why is Berry Chantilly Cake a must-try? Light and Fluffy: This cake features airy layers that melt in your mouth, making it an ideal summer dessert. Rich Creaminess: The mascarpone-infused frosting perfectly balances the sweetness of fresh berries, creating a delightful flavor profile. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can impress your guests without the stress of complicated techniques. Endless Versatility: Feel free to swap out berries for other fruits like peaches or cherries, adapting the cake to your taste. For more fruity inspiration, check out my Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon or Strawberry Shortcake Roll. Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a birthday celebration, this cake is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite! Berry Chantilly Cake Ingredients For the Cake Layers • Cake Flour – Provides the structure and light texture; substitute with a mix of all-purpose flour and cornstarch for a similar effect. • Baking Powder – Ensures the cake rises and is fluffy; confirm it’s fresh for optimal results. • Baking Soda – Works with acidic ingredients to provide additional leavening. • Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. • Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve the right texture in the cake. • Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; room temperature butter yields better results. • Egg Whites – Essential for the airy texture; must be at room temperature. • Vegetable Oil – Ensures moisture and tenderness; can substitute with melted coconut oil if desired. • Vanilla Extract – Adds a complexity of flavor; pure vanilla is preferred for the best taste. • Buttermilk – Contributes moisture and tang; can replace with milk mixed with vinegar for a similar effect. For the Frosting and Filling • Berry Jam – Acts as a flavorful filling between cake layers; choose your favorite type for personal touch. • Fresh Berries – Provides a fresh and juicy complement; strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries are recommended. • Lemon Juice & Zest – Brightens the berry filling with acidity for added freshness. • Mascarpone Cheese – Creates a rich, creamy frosting; must be at room temperature for easier mixing. • Cream Cheese – A robust flavor base for the frosting; brick-style recommended for the best consistency. • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting. • Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds lightness to the frosting; keep it cold for the best results. • Almond Extract – Introduces a nutty flavor; omit if nut allergies are a concern. For Garnishing • Fresh Berries (for garnish) – Used to top the decorated cake, enhancing its visual appeal. This Berry Chantilly Cake is more than just dessert; it’s a celebration of summer’s best flavors! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Berry Chantilly Cake Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While it warms, grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. This will ensure that your Berry Chantilly Cake releases easily after baking. Set the prepared pans aside, ready for the batter once mixed. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of cake flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mix of dry ingredients is crucial for your cake’s light and fluffy structure. Make sure there are no lumps, as it will contribute to the perfect consistency of your Berry Chantilly Cake. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar In your stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step adds air that will help your cake rise beautifully. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined. Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Flavorings Gradually mix in 5 egg whites one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition. Follow this by adding ½ cup of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. The addition of these wet ingredients will enhance the flavor of your Berry Chantilly Cake while still keeping it airy. Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk Now, take your mixed dry ingredients and alternate adding them to the batter with 1 cup of buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined; be careful not to overmix as this can toughen the cake. You want a smooth batter for your Berry Chantilly Cake. Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cakes gently spring back when pressed. This is key for ensuring that your cake layers are perfectly baked. Step 7: Cool the Cakes Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully transfer the cake layers to wire racks to cool completely. This ensures that they retain their structure and remain fluffy for your Berry Chantilly Cake assembly. Step 8: Prepare the Berry Filling While the cake cools, mix together your choice of berry jam and a tablespoon of water in a small bowl until smooth. In another bowl, toss together 2 cups of fresh berries with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and lemon zest. This vibrant mixture will add a fresh burst of flavor to your Berry Chantilly Cake. Step 9: Make the Frosting In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of room-temperature mascarpone cheese and 8 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese until creamy and well blended. Gradually add in 1 cup of powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Finally, fold in 1 cup of cold heavy whipping cream, along with 1 teaspoon of almond extract if using, until you reach soft peaks. Step 10: Assemble the Cake Level the cooled cake layers with a knife for even stacking. Spread a layer of berry jam followed by a generous amount of frosting between the two layers. After stacking, apply a thin “crumb coat” of frosting to the outside of the cake, then chill for 30 minutes to help firm it up before applying the final layer of frosting. Step 11: Frost and Garnish Frost the top and sides of your chilled Berry Chantilly Cake with the remaining mascarpone frosting, smoothing out to create a lovely finish. Finally, top with a mix of fresh berries, creating a colorful and inviting presentation that showcases the best of summer. What to Serve with Berry Chantilly Cake The perfect summer dessert deserves a delightful supporting cast to create a memorable meal experience. Refreshing Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits can provide a light and juicy contrast to the cake’s richness, enhancing the overall freshness of your meal. Iced Tea: Crisp, cool, and invigorating, iced tea adds a splash of refreshment that pairs beautifully with the sweet, creamy layers of the cake. Lemon Sorbet: This tart and icy treat cleanses the palate wonderfully, balancing the cake’s sweetness while offering a burst of citrusy flavor. Whipped Cream: Add an extra layer of indulgence! A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the creamy frosting and enhances the dessert experience. Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture of almond biscotti provides a delightful contrast to the soft cake layers while echoing the nutty notes in the frosting. Sparkling Lemonade: Bubbly and bright, sparkling lemonade brings a festive touch to your gathering, pairing wonderfully with the lightness of the Berry Chantilly Cake. Imagine enjoying these pairings on a sunny afternoon, making every bite and sip a joyful celebration of summer flavors! Make Ahead Options These Berry Chantilly Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time but still impress! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; allow them to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating to retain moisture. The frosting can be made up to 24 hours ahead—keep it chilled and only frost the cake the day you plan to serve it, to prevent sogginess from the berries. Assemble your cake shortly before serving by layering the jam, frosting, and fresh berries, ensuring that everything remains just as delicious and fresh. Enjoy a beautiful, hassle-free dessert without the last-minute rush! How to Store and Freeze Berry Chantilly Cake Fridge: Store any leftover Berry Chantilly Cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days to retain its moisture and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving. Reheating: If you prefer your cake a bit warm, you can microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent the frosting from melting. Assembling Tips: To maintain the cake’s fluffy texture, assemble and decorate the Berry Chantilly Cake no more than a day in advance. Expert Tips for Berry Chantilly Cake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter, mascarpone, and eggs, are at room temperature for smoother mixing and a lighter cake texture. Avoid Overmixing: Mix your batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake rather than the light-textured Berry Chantilly Cake you desire. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake layers to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready; otherwise, give it a few more minutes. Chill the Frosting: Refrigerate your frosting before applying it to the cake. This helps it maintain shape during frosting, creating a beautiful finish. Use Fresh Berries Wisely: Assemble your cake no more than a day in advance. This prevents the berries from weeping, ensuring your Berry Chantilly Cake stays fresh and visually appealing. Berry Chantilly Cake Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this recipe to suit your taste! Seasonal Fruits: Substitute blueberries, peaches, or cherries for a fresh twist. Each fruit brings its unique flair! Greek Yogurt: Mix Greek yogurt into the frosting for a tangy flavor. It adds a lovely creaminess and a hint of zest that’s hard to resist. Cupcake Conversion: Transform the batter into delightful cupcakes! Bake for 15-18 minutes for a bite-sized treat perfect for any occasion. Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for crunch. This beautiful texture contrast pairs wonderfully with the creamy frosting. Chocolate Option: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-covered berry experience. Chocolate and berries are a match made in heaven! Vegan Version: Replace cream cheese and mascarpone with plant-based alternatives and use coconut cream for the frosting. This option is as delicious as it is inclusive for everyone to enjoy! As you consider your variations, don’t forget to check out my delicious Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake or the ever-popular Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake for more inspiration! Berry Chantilly Cake Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best berries for my Berry Chantilly Cake? Absolutely! For the best results, look for berries that are vibrant in color, firm, and free of any dark spots or mushy areas. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are excellent choices. If using strawberries, opt for ones that are bright red and fragrant. Freshness is key, so choose seasonal berries whenever possible for a burst of flavor! How should I store leftover Berry Chantilly Cake? To keep your leftover Berry Chantilly Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture. Can I freeze Berry Chantilly Cake? Yes, indeed! Freezing is a great way to preserve your Berry Chantilly Cake. First, allow the cake layers to cool completely, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This will protect the cake from freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight, and then assemble your cake as usual. What should I do if my cake layers are dense or tough? Very! If you find your cake has turned out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. To prevent this, mix just until combined when adding the dry ingredients. Also, check that your leavening agents, like baking powder and baking soda, are fresh; they play a vital role in creating that soft, airy texture you want for your Berry Chantilly Cake. Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies? Absolutely! If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the almond extract from the recipe. The cake will still be deliciously sweet and flavorful without it. Additionally, always double-check your berry jam and other packaged ingredients for potential cross-contamination if you’re highly sensitive. Can I use different fruits in the filling and garnish? Very much so! The Berry Chantilly Cake is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to substitute seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries for a delightful twist. Just ensure that whatever fruit you select is fresh and complements the flavors of the mascarpone frosting. Enjoy the creativity! Berry Chantilly Cake Berry Chantilly Cake is a delightful summer dessert featuring fluffy layers and creamy mascarpone frosting, perfect for warm celebrations. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 32 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 17 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake Layers2 cups cake flour or a mix of all-purpose flour and cornstarch1 tablespoon baking powder ensure it’s fresh1 teaspoon baking soda½ teaspoon salt1½ cups granulated sugar1 cup unsalted butter room temperature5 large egg whites room temperature½ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil1 tablespoon vanilla extract pure is preferred1 cup buttermilk or milk mixed with vinegarFor the Frosting and Filling1 cup berry jam of your favorite type2 cups fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries1 tablespoon lemon juice1 tablespoon lemon zest8 ounces mascarpone cheese room temperature8 ounces cream cheese brick-style recommended1 cup powdered sugar1 cup heavy whipping cream cold1 teaspoon almond extract omit if nut allergies are a concernFor Garnishing2 cups fresh berries for topping Equipment Stand mixerMixing bowls9-inch round cake pansParchment paperWhiskSpatulaWire racks Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.Cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy.Gradually mix in egg whites, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, mixing just until combined.Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 28-32 minutes.Cool the cakes in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.Mix berry jam and water in a bowl until smooth. Toss fresh berries with lemon juice and zest.Beat mascarpone cheese and cream cheese until creamy, then add powdered sugar and fold in heavy cream.Level the cooled cake layers, spread berry jam and frosting between layers, and apply a crumb coat.Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting and top with fresh berries. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing. Assemble and decorate the cake no more than a day in advance to maintain freshness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
