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Rustic Berry Vanilla Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh berries with the rich flavor of vanilla. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of creating a moist and fluffy cake that is sure to impress your family and friends. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to whip up this rustic treat in no time!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Berries
Gently fold in the mixed berries, being careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick but should incorporate the berries evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between 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.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cakes are completely cool, you can dust them with powdered sugar if desired. Serve your Rustic Berry Vanilla Cake with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh berries?
Yes, you can use frozen berries in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover Rustic Berry Vanilla Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature until you are ready to serve.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
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