Description
An enchanting dessert blending sweet and tart flavors of fresh cherries and mixed berries within a soft, moist heart-shaped cake.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2¼ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- Red gel food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup cherries, pitted (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1½ cups unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream
- White royal icing (for decoration)
- Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two heart-shaped cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the butter until soft and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar, beating until light and airy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry mixture with the sour cream and milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
- If desired, add red gel food coloring to the batter. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Allow to cool.
- While cooling, prepare the cherry berry filling by combining cherries, mixed berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir in cornstarch mixed with cold water and simmer until thickened. Let it cool.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then add vanilla and heavy cream. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the cake by layering one cake with berry filling, adding the second layer on top. Apply a crumb coat and chill for 15 minutes.
- Frost the cake with the smooth cream frosting and decorate with royal icing and fresh berries if desired.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Do not overmix and cool layers completely before stacking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American