Strawberry Mango Spirit Cake

Strawberry Mango Spirit Cake is a tropical-inspired dessert that brings together the sweet and refreshing flavors of strawberries and mangoes in a moist, fluffy cake. With a touch of spirit (like rum or a fruity liqueur) for added flavor, this cake is perfect for special occasions or summer celebrations. Here’s how to make this delicious and vibrant dessert!

Ingredients:

For the Strawberry Mango Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mango puree (blend fresh or canned mangoes)
• 1/2 cup strawberry puree (blend fresh strawberries)
• 1/4 cup milk (or coconut milk for a tropical twist)
• 1-2 tbsp rum (optional, for a spirited flavor)

For the Mango Strawberry Syrup (for soaking):

• 1/4 cup mango juice or puree
• 1/4 cup strawberry juice or puree
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp rum (optional, or use water)

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp mango puree (optional, for flavor and color)
• 1 tbsp strawberry puree (optional, for flavor and color)

Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh strawberry slices
• Fresh mango slices
• Mint leaves

Instructions:

1. Make the Strawberry Mango Cake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment paper).
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the mango puree, strawberry puree, and milk. Mix until just combined.
• Add the rum (if using) and mix to incorporate.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Mango Strawberry Syrup:

• In a small saucepan, combine the mango juice, strawberry juice, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Once the sugar dissolves, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
• Remove from heat and stir in the rum (if using). Let the syrup cool to room temperature.

3. Make the Whipped Cream Frosting:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
• If you want extra flavor, gently fold in the mango and strawberry purees until you achieve a light pink-orange color and a balanced flavor. This step is optional but adds a nice touch of color and flavor.

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes are completely cool, use a skewer or toothpick to poke holes in the top of each cake layer.
• Generously brush the cooled mango strawberry syrup over the cakes, allowing the syrup to soak into the cake layers.
• Place the first cake layer on your serving plate and spread a layer of whipped cream frosting over it.
• Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream frosting.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish the cake with fresh slices of strawberry and mango, and add a few mint leaves for color and freshness.
• Slice and serve immediately! The cake is deliciously moist, with a perfect balance of fruity sweetness and creamy frosting.

Tips:

• To make the mango and strawberry purees, simply blend fresh or frozen fruit until smooth. You can strain them if you prefer a smoother texture.
• If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, just omit the rum from both the cake and syrup, or substitute with fruit juice.
• For added flair, you can drizzle extra mango or strawberry puree over the top of the frosted cake before serving.

This Strawberry Mango Spirit Cake will surely be a crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and refreshing flavor combination that’s perfect for a summer treat or any festive occasion!