Whole Foods Berry Chantilly Cake recipe

How to Make Whole Foods Berry Chantilly Cake: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

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The Whole Foods Berry Chantilly Cake is a bakery favorite known for its light, moist layers, rich mascarpone frosting, and bursts of fresh berries. This guide will show you how to replicate this delicious dessert at home, perfect for celebrations or simply indulging in something extraordinary.

For more inspiration on creating the best cakes for any occasion, check out the most delicious cake in the world, which shares ideas for exceptional baking projects.

What Makes the Foods Berry Chantilly Cake Special?

This cake combines:

  • Fluffy vanilla cake layers soaked in simple syrup for moisture.
  • Chantilly cream frosting, a luxurious mix of mascarpone and cream cheese.
  • Fresh mixed berries, providing natural sweetness and a tart balance.

Discover other delightful birthday cake options by exploring what kind of cake is best for a birthday, which highlights cake styles for every celebration.

Ingredients – Whole Foods Berry Chantilly Cake

When making the Whole Foods Berry Chantilly Cake, the quality and understanding of your ingredients are essential for achieving the best results. If you’ve never baked before, don’t worry! This detailed guide will break down each ingredient and explain why it’s important and how to handle it.

Cake Layers

  1. All-Purpose Flour (2 ¾ cups)
    • This is the foundation of your cake. Choose unbleached, all-purpose flour for consistent results.
    • Pro Tip: Measure flour correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it with a knife. Don’t scoop directly from the bag, as it compacts the flour and may lead to dense cake layers.
  2. Baking Powder (2 ½ tsp)
    • This leavening agent helps your cake rise, making it light and fluffy.
    • Always check the expiration date; expired baking powder won’t do its job.
  3. Baking Soda (½ tsp)
    • It works with the buttermilk to create a tender crumb.
    • Baking soda activates best with acidic ingredients like buttermilk or vinegar.
  4. Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened)
    • Butter adds richness and flavor. Use unsalted to control the salt in your recipe.
    • Pro Tip: To soften butter, leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If pressed for time, microwave it in short 5-second intervals, but avoid melting it.
  5. Granulated Sugar (2 cups)
    • Provides sweetness and structure to the cake. Stick to regular white sugar for the best texture.
  6. Large Eggs (4)
    • Use room-temperature eggs to ensure they mix smoothly into the batter. Place cold eggs in warm water for 5 minutes if you forget to take them out early.
  7. Vanilla Extract (2 tsp)
    • This adds depth and enhances the flavor of your cake. Use pure vanilla extract if possible, as it has a richer taste than imitation vanilla.
  8. Buttermilk (1 cup)
    • This is the secret to a moist and tender cake! Its acidity reacts with the baking soda for a light texture.

Chantilly Cream Frosting

  1. Mascarpone Cheese (8 oz)
    • A soft Italian cheese that provides a rich, creamy texture without being overly sweet.
    • Keep it cold until you’re ready to use it; it whips better when chilled.
  2. Cream Cheese (8 oz)
    • Adds a slight tang to balance the frosting’s sweetness. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best consistency.
    • Soften it slightly for easy mixing, but don’t let it get too warm, as it could make the frosting runny.
  3. Powdered Sugar (1 cup)
    • Sweetens the frosting and helps it hold its shape. Sift it before adding to prevent lumps.
  4. Heavy Whipping Cream (2 cups)
    • Whipping cream makes the frosting light and airy. Use cold cream, as it whips faster and holds its shape better.
  5. Almond Extract (½ tsp, optional)
    • Adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the berries and frosting. Use sparingly, as it can be overpowering.

Assembly

  1. Mixed Fresh Berries (2 cups)
    • Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a variety of flavors and textures.
    • Wash and pat them dry thoroughly to prevent the cake from getting soggy. If using strawberries, slice them into thin pieces for even layering.
  2. Simple Syrup (¼ cup, optional)
    • Made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water, simple syrup keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle sweetness.
    • Brush it lightly onto each cake layer with a pastry brush.

Essential Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls: At least three, for dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and frosting.
  • Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: A must for creaming butter and whipping frosting.
  • 9-Inch Round Cake Pans: Grease them well and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Spatula: For spreading frosting evenly between layers and on the cake.
  • Pastry Brush: For applying simple syrup.

 

Step-by-Step Guide for Berry Chantilly Cake

If you’re want best way to baking , this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making the Whole Foods Berry Chantilly Cake. Follow these detailed instructions, and you’ll end up with a delicious dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery.

1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Set Up Your Workspace
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is ready by the time you’ve made the batter.
    • Gather all your ingredients and equipment, including two 9-inch round cake pans.
    • Grease the pans with butter or cooking spray, and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of baking soda.
    • Use a whisk or fork to mix these ingredients thoroughly. This ensures the baking powder and soda are evenly distributed, which helps the cake rise evenly.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
    • In another large bowl, add 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar.
    • Use an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to beat the butter and sugar until the mixture looks pale and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, making the cake light and tender.
  4. Add the Eggs
    • Crack 4 large eggs into a small bowl to check for shells, then add them one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture.
    • Mix well after each addition to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated before adding the next one.
  5. Incorporate Vanilla and Buttermilk
    • Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix for a few seconds.
    • Reduce the mixer speed to low, and alternate adding the dry ingredients and 1 cup of buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. For example:
      • Add ⅓ of the dry mixture, mix until combined.
      • Add ½ of the buttermilk, mix until combined.
      • Repeat until everything is incorporated.
    • Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

2: Bake the Cake

  1. Bake the Layers
    • Position the pans in the center of your preheated oven. For smaller ovens, place the pans on the same rack to ensure even heat distribution.
    • Bake for 30–35 minutes, checking at the 30-minute mark. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of each cake—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cakes are ready.
  2. Cool the Cakes
    • Remove the pans for 15–19 minutes.

3: Make the Chantilly Cream Frosting

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients
    • Take 8 oz of mascarpone cheese and 8 oz of cream cheese out of the fridge. They should be cold but slightly softened for easier mixing.
    • Measure 1 cup of powdered sugar and sift it to remove any lumps.
  2. Beat the Cheeses
    • In a large bowl, beat the mascarpone and cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 1–2 minutes).
  3. Add the Sugar and Flavoring
    • Slowly add the powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon of almond extract (optional) while mixing. This ensures the sugar blends evenly without creating lumps.
  4. Whip the Cream
    • In a separate bowl, pour 2-3 cups whipping cream. Using a clean mixer or whisk attachment, beat the cream on high speed until it forms soft peaks (the cream will hold its shape when you lift the whisk but still droop slightly).
    • Use a spatula and fold gently to avoid deflating the whipped cream.

4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Level the Cake Layers (Optional)
    • If the tops of your cake layers are domed, use a serrated knife to trim them flat. This makes stacking easier.
  2. Brush with Simple Syrup (Optional)
    • If you want extra moist layers, brush the tops of each cake layer with simple syrup. Make this by boiling ¼ cup of sugar and ¼ cup of water until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before brushing.
  3. Start Layering
    • Place the cake layer and make it on a serving plate . Spread a generous amount of Chantilly cream frosting over the top using a spatula.
    • Sprinkle an even layer of mixed berries over the frosting.
  4. Add the Second Layer
    • Carefully place the second cake layer and make it on top of the berries. Spread frosting on the top and sides of the entire cake.

5: Chill and Serve

  1. Chill the Cake
    • Chill the assembled cake in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the frosting to firm up and makes cutting the cake simpler.
  2. Slice and Enjoy
    • Use a sharp knife to slice the cake into even portions. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

By carefully following these steps, even a novice can make a beautiful Whole Foods Berry Chantilly Cake. Don’t rush through the process—baking is as much about enjoying the experience as it is about the final outcome!

For additional tips on assembling layered cakes, explore Berry Chantilly Cake Recipe Steps.

Storage and Customization

  • Storage Tips: Keep the cake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days.
  • Customizations:
    • Substitute berries with seasonal fruits.
    • Use dairy-free alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.

Looking for a more classic variation? Try the Best Chantilly Cake Recipe, which offers another take on this delightful dessert.

FAQs About Berry Chantilly Cake

Can I use frozen berries?

Yes, but thaw and dry them before using to avoid sogginess.

How long does this cake stay fresh?

Up to 3 days in the fridge if stored properly.

What makes Chantilly frosting unique?

Its light, creamy texture combines mascarpone and whipped cream for a balanced sweetness.

Conclusion

Creating the Whole Foods Berry Chantilly Cake at home is a rewarding way to enjoy a bakery-quality treat. Whether for a special occasion or a casual dessert, this cake is sure to impress. For more baking inspiration, don’t forget to explore Baking Joys for tips and recipes to elevate your culinary creations.