Indulge in the delightful flavors of my favorite Strawberry Mascarpone Cake recipe. This seasonal treat features layers of moist vanilla cake, luscious strawberry filling, and a velvety mascarpone whipped cream frosting. Bursting with fresh strawberries, this cake is a true celebration of the season’s bounty.
Inspired by a fruitful day of strawberry picking at our local farm, this recipe captures the essence of summer in every bite. The combination of tender cake, zesty lemon notes, and Grand Marnier-infused strawberries creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet craving, this Strawberry Mascarpone Cake is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. Join me in savoring each heavenly layer of this cake and get ready to fall in love with this irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Creating a delectable Strawberry Mascarpone Cake requires a combination of key ingredients that come together to form a symphony of flavors and textures.
Cake Components
- 7 eggs
- 140g flour
- 140g granulated sugar
- 1 tsp butter, margarine, or shortening (to grease the baking pan)
- 2 lbs or 900g strawberries (2 boxes, ½ lbs or approx 225g for the cream, the rest for layering and decoration)
Strawberry Filling
- ½ lbs or 225g strawberries (for pureeing)
- 1 lb or 450g mascarpone (2 small or 1 big box)
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 6 tbsp powdered sugar
- Prepared cream mixture (from strawberry filling section)
- Fresh strawberries for topping and decoration
Required Tools and Equipment
When preparing this delightful Strawberry Mascarpone Cake recipe, having the right tools and equipment on hand is essential to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are the items you will need:
Kitchen Tools:
- Mixing Bowls: Large and medium-sized bowls for mixing different components of the cake.
- Electric Mixer: To beat ingredients like butter, sugar, and egg whites until fluffy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of all the ingredients.
- Spatula: To scrape down the sides of the bowls and fold in ingredients gently.
- Cake Pans: Two 9-inch round cake pans for baking the cake layers.
- Parchment Paper: To line the cake pans and prevent sticking.
- Cooling Rack: For cooling the cakes after baking.
- Offset Spatula: For spreading frosting and filling between cake layers.
- Knife: To level the cake layers if needed.
- Cake Stand or Plate: For assembling and serving the finished cake.
- Pastry Bag and Decorating Tips: To pipe frosting for decoration.
- Fresh Strawberries: Additional strawberries for garnishing.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries: For extra flavor and decoration.
- Thyme Sprigs: Optional herb for a decorative touch.
Preparation Steps
Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans
To begin making this delectable Strawberry Mascarpone Cake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare three 8-inch round baking pans by lining the bottom with parchment paper and greasing the sides. If you prefer, use bake-even strips to ensure even baking of the cake layers.
Instructions
Making the Cake Batter
To begin, preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 cup of freeze-dried strawberries. Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and airy. Add room temperature egg whites, sour cream, and 1 teaspoon of clear vanilla extract. Alternately add dry ingredients and milk to the mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Baking the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Strawberry Filling
In a saucepan, combine quartered fresh strawberries, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries are soft and the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Creating the Mascarpone Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until frosting is light and fluffy.
These instructions will guide you through making the perfect Strawberry Mascarpone Cake with moist vanilla layers, luscious strawberry filling, and decadent mascarpone frosting.
Assembly
Assembling the Strawberry Mascarpone Cake is a delightful process that brings together the moist vanilla layers, the luscious strawberry filling, and the decadent mascarpone whipped cream frosting. Let’s dive into the final steps to create this delicious cake.
Layering the Cake and Filling
Before assembling the cake, trim the domes off the cake layers to create even, flat surfaces that will stack beautifully. A piping bag comes in handy for frosting and decorating this cake.
- Prepare the Cake Layers: Trim off any domed tops and place the first layer on a dollop of frosting on your cake board.
- Create a Frosting Barrier: Fill a piping bag with half of the mascarpone whipped cream. Pipe a thick border around the edge of the bottom layer to create a barrier for the strawberry filling.
- Fill the Cake: Spread the strawberry filling inside the frosting dam, then add a thin layer of frosting on top before placing the next cake layer.
- Repeat the Process: Add the second cake layer and repeat the piping and filling process. Finally, top with the third cake layer to complete the assembly.
Frosting the Cake
To finish off the Strawberry Mascarpone Cake, apply the silky mascarpone whipped cream frosting for a final touch of elegance and flavor.
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, beat the cream until it thickens. Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla to achieve soft peaks. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese and cream until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.
- Assemble the Cake: Apply the mascarpone whipped cream frosting evenly on the outside of the cake layers, covering the entire cake surface.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish the cake with fresh strawberries, freeze-dried strawberries, or thyme sprigs for a decorative finish that complements the flavors.
By following these steps, you will create a stunning and delicious Strawberry Mascarpone Cake that is sure to impress your guests and delight your taste buds.
Decoration Ideas
Adding a touch of elegance to your strawberry mascarpone cake can elevate its presentation. One simple yet beautiful way to garnish your cake is by incorporating fresh strawberries and mint leaves. Here’s how you can do it:
- Fresh Strawberries: Slice some fresh strawberries and arrange them decoratively on top of the cake. You can create a strawberry border around the edges or scatter them gently in the center for a pop of color and freshness.
- Mint Leaves: Pluck some vibrant green mint leaves and tuck them in between the strawberry slices. The contrast of red strawberries and green mint not only adds visual appeal but also brings a refreshing aroma to the cake.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As I prepare for my delightful Strawberry Mascarpone Cake, I always like to plan ahead to make the process smoother. Here are some make-ahead instructions to help you save time and reduce stress when baking this delicious dessert:
- Prepping the Cake Layers: You can bake the cake layers in advance to save time on the day of assembly. Once baked and completely cooled, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This way, you can focus on preparing the fillings and frosting on the day you plan to serve the cake.
- Making the Strawberry Filling: The strawberry filling can also be prepared ahead of time. After macerating the strawberries with powdered sugar and vanilla, store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld together, creating a more intense and delicious strawberry filling for your cake.
- Whipping up the Mascarpone Frosting: The mascarpone frosting can be made a day in advance to streamline the assembly process. Once you’ve whipped the mascarpone with heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This will help the frosting set and develop its flavors, making it easier to spread on the cake layers.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can break down the preparation process into manageable steps and enjoy a stress-free experience when putting together your Strawberry Mascarpone Cake. Planning ahead not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive cake.
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing this luscious Strawberry Mascarpone Cake, proper handling is key to maintain its freshness and flavor over time. Here are some handy tips for refrigeration and freezing:
Refrigeration
After assembling and frosting the cake, wrap it securely in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It’s essential to refrigerate the cake to keep it fresh and delicious. The mascarpone frosting and strawberry filling need to be kept chilled to preserve their creamy texture.
Freezing Suggestions
If you want to extend the shelf life of your Strawberry Mascarpone Cake, freezing is an excellent option. To freeze, ensure the cake is well-protected to prevent freezer burn. Consider slicing the cake into portions for easy thawing when needed. Once frozen, the cake can be stored for up to a month, allowing you to enjoy a slice of this delightful treat whenever the craving strikes.
Conclusion
Creating a Strawberry Mascarpone Cake is a delightful experience that combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of mascarpone. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With the right tools and techniques, assembling this cake is a breeze, and the optional garnishes add a beautiful touch to the presentation. Remember to follow the storage tips provided to keep your cake fresh and delicious for longer periods. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a dessert lover, this Strawberry Mascarpone Cake recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Enjoy the process of making this delicious cake and savor every bite of its luscious layers.