Berry cake with vanilla cream

Berry and Vanilla Cream Cake

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

This berry and vanilla cream cake is a delight that perfectly combines the sweetness of the fruits with the creaminess of vanilla. It is a recipe that brings joy with every bite, especially on warm summer days when berries are in season, but it can be enjoyed anytime. Whether you want to impress guests or treat yourself and your family, this cake is the perfect choice.

The history of berry cake goes back in time, but it is known that the combination of fresh fruits and rich creams has always been a favorite in kitchens around the world. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients

Base 1:
- 6 egg whites
- 9 tablespoons sugar
- 8 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 bag frozen berries (approx. 300g)

Base 2:
- 6 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons lard (or margarine)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- Flour as needed (approx. 200g)
- 100 ml juice from frozen berries

Cream:
- 1 package butter (250g, at room temperature)
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 vanilla pudding
- 500 ml milk

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing Base 1
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Choose a 30x20 cm baking dish, line it with parchment paper, and lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until frothy. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a firm, glossy meringue.
3. Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gently fold them into the meringue. Be careful not to lose the incorporated air.
4. Add the frozen berries, well drained of excess water. Gently mix so that they distribute evenly.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
6. Remove the base from the oven, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then remove it with the parchment paper and let it cool completely on a rack.

Step 2: Preparing Base 2
1. In another bowl, cream the egg yolks with the lard (or margarine) until smooth. Add the baking soda and sugar, mixing well.
2. Gradually incorporate the juice from the berries and flour until you achieve a soft, homogeneous mixture. If you want a darker base, you can add 2 tablespoons of cocoa.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish you used previously. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking with a toothpick.

Step 3: Preparing the Cream
1. In a saucepan, prepare the vanilla pudding according to the package instructions using the 500 ml of milk. Let it cool slightly.
2. In a bowl, beat the butter at room temperature with the sugar until fluffy. Add the cooled vanilla pudding and mix well until you get a smooth cream.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake
1. Place the first base (Base 1) on a serving platter. Spread the vanilla cream evenly over it.
2. Place Base 2 on top, pressing gently to secure it.
3. Finally, dust the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Serving Suggestions
Serving the berry and vanilla cream cake can be enhanced with a few simple tricks. For example, you can add a berry sauce on top for extra flavor or serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Variations
To add a personal twist to your cake, you can:
- Use other fresh or frozen berries (blackberries, raspberries, blueberries).
- Soak Base 2 with a rum syrup before adding the cream.
- Add a chocolate glaze on top of the cake for a decadent touch.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: approximately 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruits?
Of course! Fresh fruits will add a crunchier texture and a more intense flavor.

How can I store the cake?
Keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can gently reheat it in the microwave before serving to restore its texture.

Is it possible to make the cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can use vegan butter and plant-based milk to make a dairy-free version.

The berry and vanilla cream cake is a dessert that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So put on your apron and enjoy every step of this delicious recipe! Enjoy your meal!