Chocolate Layer Cake with Cream and Berries Recipe
If you’re looking for an indulgent, show-stopping dessert that combines rich chocolate, fresh berries, and fluffy cream, this Chocolate Layer Cake with Cream and Berries is the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something spectacular, this cake will impress with its decadent layers and vibrant berry topping.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dark chocolate | 100g |
| All-purpose flour | 180g |
| Granulated sugar | 180g |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 50g |
| Eggs | 200g |
| Butter (at room temperature) | 200g |
| Baking powder | 8g |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Fresh mixed berries | 125g |
| Heavy cream (liquid) | 500g |
| Powdered sugar | 50g |
| Fresh mint leaves (for decoration) | As needed |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate
Start by coarsely chopping the dark chocolate into small pieces. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl and melt it gently. You can do this by placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or microwaving it in short bursts, stirring frequently. Once melted, allow the chocolate to cool slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent it from hardening again.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
While the chocolate cools, prepare the cake batter. In the bowl of a stand mixer, place the butter cut into small chunks and granulated sugar. Using the whisk attachment, beat the butter and sugar together at medium speed until the mixture becomes light and creamy.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Once all the eggs are added, continue mixing for a few more minutes until the batter becomes smooth and fluffy. Gradually pour in the melted, slightly cooled chocolate, mixing it in gently until fully combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Add a pinch of salt and sift again to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in small batches. Mix at low speed to avoid overworking the batter, stopping once the ingredients are just combined. The batter should be thick and smooth.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line the bottom of a 22 cm (9-inch) springform cake pan with butter and parchment paper. Pour the prepared batter into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Filling
While the cake is cooling, prepare the whipped cream filling. Place the heavy cream into the bowl of the stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Start mixing at low speed and gradually increase to medium speed. Once the cream begins to thicken, add the powdered sugar and continue to whip until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as you want the cream to remain light and fluffy.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, use a serrated knife to carefully slice off the top of the cake, creating a flat surface. Then, slice the cake horizontally into three even layers.
Place the first cake layer on a serving platter or cake board. Using a spatula, spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top. Take your piping bag fitted with a plain round tip and pipe a border of whipped cream around the edge of the cake layer, creating a “wall” to hold in the berries.
Next, scatter some fresh mixed berries inside the cream border. Carefully place the second layer of cake on top and repeat the process—spread cream, pipe a border, and add berries.
For the final layer, place the third cake layer on top. Cover the entire top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. Use a spatula to smooth the cream across the surface and edges for a clean finish.
Step 7: Decorate the Cake
For decoration, use a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped nozzle to pipe small rosettes around the perimeter of the cake. Finish by scattering the remaining fresh berries on top of the cake. Optionally, you can add a few sprigs of fresh mint to bring a touch of greenery and enhance the presentation.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
This luxurious Chocolate Layer Cake with Cream and Berries is now ready to be served! Slice carefully to reveal the beautiful layers and enjoy a bite of this indulgent dessert with your loved ones. The combination of rich chocolate, light cream, and fresh berries makes every slice a delightful experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Cholesterol | 110mg |
| Sodium | 45mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 35g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Vitamin A | 550 IU |
| Vitamin C | 10mg |
| Calcium | 50mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
This cake is the epitome of indulgence, perfectly combining the richness of chocolate, the smoothness of whipped cream, and the tartness of fresh berries. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a family dinner, or simply want to treat yourself, this Chocolate Layer Cake with Cream and Berries is sure to impress and satisfy.
