Fresh Fruit Three-Tiered Cake

Looking to impress your guests with a showstopper? This Fresh Fruit Three-Tiered Cake is a vibrant and healthy alternative to traditional desserts. It features layers of light cake stacked high with a mix of fresh, seasonal fruits for a gorgeous, flavorful dessert that is both beautiful and delicious!

Ingredients

For the Cake Layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1-2 tbsp milk (for adjusting consistency)

For the Fresh Fruit Filling:

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

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake Layers:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three round cake pans (preferably 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch in size).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and sour cream.
4. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared pans.
6. Bake the cakes for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating on low speed until fully combined.
3. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired frosting consistency.
4. Continue beating on medium-high speed until fluffy and smooth.

3. Assemble the Three-Tiered Cake:

1. Once the cake layers have cooled, level them if necessary to ensure they stack evenly.
2. Place the largest cake layer on a cake stand or serving platter. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top.
3. Add a layer of fresh fruit on top of the frosting, ensuring that the fruit is evenly spread across the layer.
4. Place the second cake layer on top and repeat with frosting and fruit.
5. Finally, place the smallest cake layer on top. Frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, smoothing it out evenly.
6. Garnish the top of the cake with more fresh fruit and mint leaves for an extra touch of color and freshness.

4. Chill and Serve:

• For the best presentation and flavor, refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving to allow the frosting to set slightly.
• Slice and serve your Fresh Fruit Three-Tiered Cake at your next event to wow your guests!

Tips:

• Fruit Variations: Use any fresh fruits that are in season or to your liking, such as mango, pineapple, or peaches.
• For Added Fluffiness: You can replace buttermilk with whole milk or use a milk-and-vinegar mixture as a substitute for buttermilk.
• Decorating: Play with the arrangement of fruit on the cake for a stunning presentation, arranging them in patterns, or stacking the fruit into a spiral or flower shape.

This Fresh Fruit Three-Tiered Cake is a showstopper that combines fresh fruit, fluffy cake, and creamy frosting, making it a healthy yet indulgent treat for any special occasion!