She Strengthens

Summer Berry Whipped Cream Cake: A Refreshing Treat

Looking for a sweet and refreshing dessert to serve at your next summer gathering? Look no further than this stunning summer berry whipped cream cake! Perfect for birthdays, outdoor parties, or simply enjoying the warm weather, this cake is sure to impress.

Berry Preparation: The First Step

To begin, you’ll need to prepare the berries. In a medium nonreactive mixing bowl, combine 2 pints of fresh strawberries, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest. Toss the mixture to coat the strawberries evenly, then let it macerate at room temperature for at least 20 minutes. Strain the macerated berries and reserve the syrup separately.

Cake Preparation: A Delicate Balance

Next, heat your oven to 350°F and prepare two 8-inch cake pans. In a mixing bowl, sift together 2 cups of cake flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt. Set the mixture aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment, combine 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 1/4 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of lightly packed finely grated lemon zest, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 6 large egg yolks, and 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar. Whip the mixture on medium speed until it’s airy and light in color, about 5-7 minutes. Turn off the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the dry ingredients and whip until smooth, about 1 minute more.

Egg Whites: The Key to a Light Cake

In a clean bowl, whip 6 large egg whites to medium peaks. Add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form, about 1 minute more. Using a rubber spatula, fold 1/4 of the egg whites into the cake batter until evenly incorporated, then gently fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined. Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the surface of the cakes springs back when pressed and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Filling and Frosting: The Final Touches

While the cakes are baking, prepare the filling and frosting. For the filling, combine 1/2 cup of mascarpone cheese and 1/2 cup of heavy cream in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Whip until stiff peaks form, about 2 minutes, then cover and refrigerate until ready to use. For the frosting, place the cleaned bowl of the stand mixer and the whip attachment in the freezer for 10 minutes. Combine 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 3 cups of heavy cream in the chilled bowl. Whip at medium speed until medium peaks form, about 2 minutes, then cover and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 1 hour.

Assembly: Bringing it All Together

To assemble the cake, trim the tops of the cakes as necessary so they are level. Place the cake rounds on a clean, dry surface and brush 1/2 of the reserved strawberry syrup on the cut side of the first cake round. Repeat on the cut side of the second cake round. Evenly spread 1/4 of the mascarpone filling over the cut side of the bottom cake layer, then arrange strawberries standing upright, stem end down, over the mascarpone layer. Cover the berries with the remaining filling, making sure to fill in any empty space. Place the second cake layer over the mascarpone and strawberries, cut side down, pressing gently to secure it. Using an offset spatula or a long, thin spatula, spread 3/4 cup of the frosting in a thin layer over the top and sides of the cake. Return the remaining frosting and cake to the refrigerator until the frosting on the cake is set, about 15 minutes. Spread the remaining frosting all over the top and sides of the cake, then let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving.

This summer berry whipped cream cake is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With its light and fluffy texture, sweet and tangy flavors, and stunning presentation, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the warm weather. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the oohs and aahs from your guests!