Description
Bursting with vibrant berries and kissed with a hint of citrus, this Summer Berry Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate the sunny season. Light, moist, and beautifully colorful, it’s a delightful way to use fresh seasonal fruit. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, brunch, or backyard BBQ, this cake will be the star of the table.
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Ingredients
For the Cake:
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon zest
½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
2 tbsp milk
1½ cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries)
For the Topping:
2 tbsp turbinado sugar (or granulated)
Extra berries for garnish
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract and lemon zest.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two parts, alternating with yogurt and milk.
Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Gently fold in the berries using a spatula.
Step 5: Pour and Top
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Sprinkle with turbinado sugar and a few extra berries.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once cool, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Garnish with fresh berries and a sprig of mint for a decorative touch.
Slice and serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – They blend more smoothly for a better batter.
Don’t Overmix – This ensures the cake stays light and fluffy.
Fresh or Frozen Berries – Both work, but if using frozen, do not thaw beforehand.
Distribute Berries Evenly – Prevent them from sinking by lightly tossing in flour before folding in.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: American