This Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream is the ultimate dessert for any celebration! Its light and fluffy vanilla cake, swirled with a vibrant berry puree and topped with luscious lemon whipped cream, makes it a showstopper at spring gatherings. Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or just a sunny afternoon treat, this cake will impress your guests with its flavor and presentation.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake
- For the Berry Puree
- For the Lemon Whipped Cream
- For Garnishing
- How to Make Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
- Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
- Step 4: Bake the Cakes
- Step 5: Prepare Berry Puree
- Step 6: Make Lemon Whipped Cream
- Step 7: Assemble Your Cake
- Step 8: Garnish
- How to Serve Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
- Fresh Berries
- Lemon Zest Garnish
- Cake Slices with Cream
- Mini Servings
- Ice Cream Pairing
- Coffee or Tea
- How to Perfect Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
- Best Side Dishes for Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
- Reheating Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes the Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream so special?
- Can I customize this recipe?
- How long does it take to prepare the Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream?
- Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet vanilla cake paired with tangy lemon and fresh berries creates a delightful taste experience.
- Visual Appeal: Layering the berry puree and lemon whipped cream gives this cake a beautiful look that’s perfect for special occasions.
- Versatile Dessert: It’s suitable for various events, from casual family dinners to elegant parties.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create this stunning cake without stress.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to mix in different fruits or use alternative flavors to make it uniquely yours.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your batter is perfectly mixed, resulting in a light and airy texture.
- Cooling rack: Using a cooling rack allows the cake to cool evenly, preventing sogginess from steam buildup.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 4 Eggland’s Best eggs (separated)
- 3/4 cup butter (softened)
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk (whole is best, but 2% works as well)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup sour cream
For the Berry Puree
- 1 cup strawberries (hulled)
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
For the Lemon Whipped Cream
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- 1 8 oz container whipped cream cheese
- 2 Tbsp lemon zest (about the zest of 2 large lemons)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnishing
- 1/2 cup raspberries
- 1/2 cup strawberries (sliced and hulled)
How to Make Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for mixing.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy.
- Add in the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vegetable oil, milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 3: Whip Egg Whites
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into your batter until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Bake the Cakes
Pour equal amounts of batter into two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare Berry Puree
Blend together hulled strawberries, raspberries, and sugar until smooth. Strain if you prefer a seedless puree.
Step 6: Make Lemon Whipped Cream
In another bowl, whip together heavy cream and whipped cream cheese until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and lemon zest while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
Step 7: Assemble Your Cake
Once cooled:
1. Place one layer of cake on a serving plate.
2. Spread half of the berry puree on top followed by half of the lemon whipped cream.
3. Add the second layer of cake on top.
4. Repeat with remaining berry puree and lemon whipped cream.
Step 8: Garnish
Top off your cake with sliced strawberries and whole raspberries for an extra pop of color!
Now enjoy your delicious Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream!
How to Serve Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
This Berry Vanilla Naked Cake is not only a delight to the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a gathering of friends, serving suggestions can elevate your cake experience.
Fresh Berries
- Use fresh strawberries and raspberries to decorate the top of your cake. Their vibrant colors add a beautiful touch.
Lemon Zest Garnish
- Sprinkle lemon zest on top for an aromatic finish. It enhances the citrus flavor in the whipped cream.
Cake Slices with Cream
- Serve each slice with a dollop of lemon whipped cream on the side. This adds extra creaminess and flavor with every bite.
Mini Servings
- Consider making mini naked cakes in mason jars for individual servings. They are perfect for parties and easy to grab!
Ice Cream Pairing
- Offer a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream alongside each slice. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the fluffy cake.
Coffee or Tea
- Pair slices with a cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warm beverages complement the sweetness of the cake well.
How to Perfect Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
Perfecting your Berry Vanilla Naked Cake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
- Beat Egg Whites Separately: For an extra light cake, beat egg whites separately until stiff peaks form and fold them into the batter gently.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your cake airy and soft; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Chill Whipped Cream Before Using: Keep your heavy whipping cream chilled before whipping for better volume and stability in your lemon whipped cream.
- Let Cake Cool Completely: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures clean slices.
- Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with different berries or citrus zest in the whipped cream for unique flavor profiles.
Best Side Dishes for Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
Enhance your dessert table by pairing this stunning cake with complementary side dishes that bring out its flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
- Lemon Sorbet: This light, icy treat provides a tart contrast that complements the cake beautifully.
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Indulge guests with these sweet delights that pair wonderfully with vanilla flavors.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can offer a savory counterpoint to the sweet cake.
- Pistachio Cookies: These nutty cookies add crunch and are delightful alongside creamy desserts.
- Minted Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip infused with mint offers a refreshing palate cleanser after rich bites of cake.
- Honey Drizzled Ricotta Toasts: Lightly toasted bread topped with ricotta, honey, and fresh fruit harmonizes well together.
- Chilled Green Tea: A lightly sweetened green tea provides a refreshing drink option that pairs nicely with dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking a Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Inaccurate measurements – Using the wrong amount of ingredients can lead to a cake that doesn’t rise or has a poor texture. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Underbaking or overbaking – Not keeping an eye on the baking time can result in a dry or gooey cake. Use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean.
- Skipping the cooling time – Cutting into the cake too early can cause it to crumble. Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not using room temperature ingredients – Cold eggs and butter can affect how well they blend together. Let them sit at room temperature beforehand.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover slices in an airtight container.
- The cake will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for best results.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop – Place on a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream so special?
The unique combination of flavors from fresh berries and zesty lemon whipped cream creates a delightful balance that is perfect for any occasion.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap in different berries like blueberries or blackberries or even vary the flavor of the whipped cream by adding herbs like mint.
How long does it take to prepare the Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream?
The total preparation time is about 75 minutes, plus additional cooling time before serving.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives for the frosting.
Final Thoughts
This Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream is not only visually stunning but also deliciously versatile. It’s perfect for spring gatherings or any celebration. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits and toppings!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Berry Vanilla Naked Cake with Lemon Whipped Cream, a light and fluffy dessert that is perfect for any celebration. This stunning cake features layers of airy vanilla sponge infused with a vibrant berry puree, topped off with a luscious lemon whipped cream frosting. Its beautiful presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for spring gatherings, birthdays, or casual afternoon treats. Easy to assemble and customizable with your favorite fruits, this cake is sure to impress your guests while satisfying their sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 4 Eggland’s Best eggs (separated)
- 3/4 cup butter (softened)
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk (whole is best, but 2% works as well)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 cup strawberries (hulled)
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- 1 8 oz container whipped cream cheese
- 2 Tbsp lemon zest (about the zest of 2 large lemons)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup raspberries
- 1/2 cup strawberries (sliced and hulled)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two greased 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter and sugar until creamy. Add egg yolks one at a time, followed by vegetable oil, milk, sour cream, and vanilla; mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt; gradually add to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites to stiff peaks and gently fold into the batter.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on wire racks.
- For berry puree, blend hulled strawberries and raspberries with sugar until smooth; strain if desired.
- For lemon whipped cream, whip heavy cream and cream cheese until soft peaks form; add powdered sugar and lemon zest while whipping until stiff peaks form.
- Layer cooled cakes with berry puree and lemon whipped cream; garnish with fresh berries.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg