Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake

Name: Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2-4 tbsp milk; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 2 tbsp sugar (optional)

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making this Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake for special occasions. The combination of fluffy vanilla cake layers and vibrant berries creates a stunning dessert that is both beautiful and delicious. Every bite is a delightful burst of flavor, and it's surprisingly easy to prepare. I enjoy the process of layering the cake and watching it transform into a centerpiece for any gathering. With tart berries complementing the sweet vanilla frosting, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-09T17:21:27.477Z

When I first experimented with this Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended together. I wanted a dessert that was both rich in flavor and refreshing, and this cake delivers just that. Using fresh, seasonal berries not only enhances the taste but also adds beautiful color.

One of my favorite tips is to let the cake layers cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and helps maintain a neat and beautiful appearance. Each slice reveals layers of fluffy cake and vibrant berries - it's a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Layers of light vanilla cake pair perfectly with fresh berry layers
A stunning centerpiece for any celebration or gathering
The balance of sweetness and tartness makes each bite refreshing
Easy to customize with your favorite berries or fruits

Perfecting the Vanilla Cake Layers

The key to achieving light and fluffy vanilla cake layers lies in the creaming process. When you cream the softened butter and sugar, aim for a pale yellow color and a fluffy texture, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. This aeration will create a base that gives your cake a tender crumb. If you notice your butter is too hard or too soft, it could affect the final structure, so ensure it's at room temperature, not melted or overly soft.

Incorporating the eggs one at a time is crucial. This step allows for proper emulsification, which helps the batter hold air. After each egg, mix thoroughly until all traces of yolk are gone before adding the next. An under-mixed batter can lead to a dense cake, while an overmixed batter can cause toughness, so be careful with this step for optimal texture.

Creating the Berry Layer

Using a mix of fresh berries not only adds beautiful color and flavor but also provides different textures. Strawberries bring sweetness, while blueberries and raspberries add tartness, balancing the overall flavor profile. If your berries are particularly tart, consider gently tossing them with sugar and letting them rest for about 10 minutes. This process brings out their juices and creates a delightful syrup that enhances the berry layer's flavor while preventing it from becoming too dry in the cake.

Make sure to wash the berries thoroughly and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake's structure. If using frozen berries, gently thaw and drain them before use, or they can make the cake soggy. If you're looking for a fun variation, try using different combinations like peaches or cherries, but remember to adjust sugar levels according to the fruits’ natural sweetness.

Frosting and Decoration Tips

The frosting consistency is crucial for both taste and decoration. Start with softened butter for easy blending; beat it for 3-4 minutes until creamy before gradually adding powdered sugar. If your frosting is too thick, it won’t spread well, and if it’s too runny, it won’t hold its shape. Adjusting with milk, a tablespoon at a time, allows you to reach the perfect consistency, which should be smooth but firm enough to hold a peak when you lift your spatula.

For added visual appeal and texture, consider piping decorative borders or swirls around the edge of the cake. I often use a star piping tip to create a professional-looking finish. After decorating the top with berries, be mindful of the moisture they contain, which could seep into the frosting over time. To avoid this, serve the cake within a few hours, or refrigerate it immediately to maintain freshness, extending its shelf life up to 3 days.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
2-4 tbsp milk

For the Berry Layer

2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
2 tbsp sugar (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready for your baking adventure!

Instructions

Let’s get baking! Follow these steps:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting and Berries

While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating the softened butter and gradually adding the powdered sugar. Add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach a desired consistency. For the berry layer, if using, toss the berries with sugar and let them sit for 10 minutes.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting on top, and add a layer of berries. Repeat with the second layer. Top with the final cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate and Serve

Finish by decorating the top with remaining berries. Let the cake set for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow all flavors to meld.

Now, enjoy a delicious slice of your Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake!

Pro Tips

For a more intense berry flavor, consider adding a berry puree between the layers.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake is great for making ahead. You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. This allows the flavors to develop while keeping them moist. Frosting can also be made ahead; just ensure it's stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften for easy spreading.

If you're looking to make this cake several days in advance, consider freezing it. Freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and frost them just before serving to keep them fresh and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Serving the Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake is an opportunity to elevate your presentation. I recommend placing it on a decorative cake stand and adding a few sprigs of mint for freshness. A drizzle of berry sauce made from the macerated berry juices adds a vibrant touch to each slice when plated, enhancing both flavor and appearance.

Additionally, consider pairing slices of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. Leftover cake can also be repurposed into trifles by layering it with extra berries and whipped cream in individual serving glasses, creating a delightful dessert that showcases the heights of flavor and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, you can use frozen berries; just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.

→ How can I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What is the best way to slice the cake?

Use a sharp, serrated knife and dip it in hot water before slicing to get clean cuts.