Fresh Fruit Three-Tiered Cake

Here’s a stunning recipe for a Fresh Fruit Three-Tiered Cake a gorgeous dessert that combines layers of light cake, fresh fruit, and whipped cream, perfect for any celebration! 🎂🍓🍇

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup whole milk

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional for a thicker frosting)

For the Fresh Fruit Topping:

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 cup blackberries
• 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced
• 1 mango, peeled and diced (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three round cake pans (8-inch or 9-inch).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk and buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared pans and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. If using cream cheese, add it in with the powdered sugar to help stabilize the frosting.
3. Be careful not to overwhip, as the cream can turn into butter.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cakes have cooled, level the tops of each cake layer if necessary, so they’re flat and even.
2. Place the first cake layer on a cake stand or serving platter. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream frosting on top.
3. Add a layer of fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.).
4. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the frosting and fruit layers.
5. Top with the third cake layer and cover the entire cake with a thin crumb coat of frosting. Chill the cake for 30 minutes to set the crumb coat.
6. Once set, apply a final smooth layer of frosting all over the cake.

Step 4: Decorate with Fresh Fruit

1. Arrange the fresh fruit on top of the cake, starting from the center and working outward. Be creative with your arrangement, using a variety of colors and shapes.
2. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Chill the cake for 1 hour before serving to allow the frosting to firm up.
2. Slice and enjoy this vibrant, refreshing cake!

Tips for Perfection

• Make Ahead: Prepare the cake layers and frosting a day in advance. Assemble the cake just before serving for the freshest look.
• Fruit Variations: Use any fresh fruits you love, such as peaches, nectarines, or cherries.
• Stabilize the Frosting: If you want the frosting to hold up longer, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the powdered sugar before mixing.

This Fresh Fruit Three-Tiered Cake is an impressive dessert that’s sure to steal the spotlight at any event. Its balance of light cake, fluffy whipped cream, and fresh fruit makes it a perfect treat for spring or summer celebrations! 🌸🎉