Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake

Name: Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream; Fresh berries for decoration

Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets Corner

I love baking this Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake for special occasions. It's not only visually stunning, but it also bursts with flavor in every layer. Combining the rich taste of vanilla with the fresh tartness of berries creates a delightful contrast that makes this cake a standout. Each slice reveals beautiful layers and textures that never fail to impress family and friends, and it’s surprisingly simple to make, too! I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, so let’s get started!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-09T16:37:27.417Z

This layered cake has become a family tradition for our gatherings. The combination of vanilla and mixed berries not only looks beautiful but also delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. I experimented with various berry combinations, and I find that a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries works best, allowing the tartness of the berries to complement the sweet vanilla cake.

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh berries for decoration on the top of the cake. Not only does it enhance the visual appeal, but it also provides a juicy freshness that balances the sweetness of the frosting. Don’t forget to let the layers cool completely before stacking them, ensuring a clean finish when serving!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delicious vanilla cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries
Visually stunning layers make it perfect for any celebration
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth

Understanding Ingredients

The key to this Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake lies not just in the baking method but also in the quality of your ingredients. Using fresh, ripe berries enhances the flavor and visual appeal of the cake. I recommend avoiding frozen berries unless necessary, as they can introduce extra moisture, making it difficult to maintain the cake's structure. If you cannot find mixed fresh berries, strawberries and blueberries work particularly well for their sweetness and tartness.

The butter plays an essential role in the cake's texture. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature; this allows for proper creaming with the sugar, which incorporates air for a light and fluffy cake. If you’re short on time, you can microwave the butter in 10-second intervals until just softened but not melted, which helps retain the cake's structure and moisture.

Assembling and Frosting Tips

Assembling your cake can be a delicate process. To prevent the cake layers from sliding, I recommend using a thin layer of frosting as a crumb coat before adding a thick layer of frosting. Let this initial layer chill for about 30 minutes to set. This will trap any loose crumbs, making your final frosting layer smooth and flawless. Your cake will look more professional if the frosting is applied in a clean, smooth manner.

When it comes to decorating, consider using a mix of whole and halved berries for a visually appealing contrast. For stability, place larger berries near the base of the cake, and don’t hesitate to secure them with additional frosting if necessary. Remember, fresh berries can release moisture, so add them just before serving to keep the cake fresh and beautiful.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake.

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
Fresh berries for decoration

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious layered cake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Add a layer of mixed fresh berries, then repeat with the second cake. Top with the third layer and frost the entire cake. Decorate the top with additional fresh berries.

Enjoy your beautiful and delicious Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating a layer of berry jam between the cake layers. Also, chilling the cakes in the refrigerator before frosting can help with stability.

Make-Ahead Options

This Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy events. The cake layers can be baked a day in advance and stored wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature. Just ensure they are completely cool before wrapping to avoid sogginess. You can also prepare the frosting in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to assemble, simply re-whip the frosting to restore its creamy texture.

For long-term storage, freeze the cake layers. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This method keeps the layers fresh for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before frosting them to restore their moisture.

Variations and Customizations

While this Vanilla and Berry Layered Cake is a classic, you can customize it to suit your taste. For a twist on flavors, consider adding citrus zest like lemon or orange to the batter for a refreshing note. Incorporating a layer of lemon curd or other fruit preserves between the cake layers can add an exciting flavor dimension along with the fresh berries.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. The cake will still be delicious, though the texture may be slightly denser. Moreover, for a dairy-free version, you can substitute dairy milk with almond or soy milk and use vegan butter in the frosting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen berries, but make sure to thaw them and drain excess moisture before adding them to the cake.

→ How can I store the leftover cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly and store them at room temperature until you're ready to frost and assemble.

→ Is it possible to substitute the all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.