Bake The Perfect Berry Cake At Home: A Step By Step Guide

This homemade berry cake is packed with fresh berries, creating a soft, moist, and flavorful dessert. The cake is easy to prepare, with a simple whipped cream frosting or berry sauce. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors. Serve chilled for the best taste.

This homemade berry cake is a moist, fruity delight, perfect for any occasion. The cake features a soft, buttery base mixed with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. A simple whipped cream frosting or berry sauce adds a sweet and tangy touch, making it extra special. It’s easy to make with basic ingredients like flour, eggs, butter, and sugar. The optional berry sauce enhances the flavor, while whipped cream offers a light finish. Serve chilled for a refreshing, flavorful dessert.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

For Berry Sauce (optional for topping):

• 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Whipped Cream (optional for frosting):

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 4 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Berries

• Rinse and pat dry the mixed berries. If using larger berries like strawberries, chop them into small pieces.
• Set aside some whole berries for decorating the top of the cake later.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Cake Pans

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

• Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
• Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until smooth.
• Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in thirds, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined.
• Fold in berries: Gently fold in 2 cups of mixed berries and lemon zest (if using) with a spatula, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

• Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare Berry Sauce (Optional)

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of mixed berries, ¼ cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before using it to top the cake.

Step 6: Prepare Whipped Cream (Optional)

• In a cold mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (about 4-5 minutes).

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

• First layer: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. If you’re using whipped cream, spread a layer over the top of this cake. You can also drizzle the prepared berry sauce or fresh berries over it.
• Second layer: Place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides with whipped cream or berry sauce as desired.
• Decorate: Garnish with the reserved whole berries on top for a beautiful, fresh finish.

Serving Suggestions:

• Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
• Serve slices with extra berry sauce on the side or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips:

• Berry Variations: You can use any combination of fresh or frozen berries like raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries.
• Lemon Zest: Adding lemon zest enhances the flavor and gives the cake a light, zesty touch.
• Avoid Soggy Cake: Pat the berries dry before adding them to the batter to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the cake.
• Whipped Cream Alternative: You can use cream cheese frosting or buttercream if you prefer a thicker, more stable frosting.

Enjoy your homemade berry cake.