Introduction to Fraisier Cake
What is a Fraisier Cake?
A fraisier cake is a delightful French pastry that showcases fresh strawberries nestled between layers of light, fluffy cake and smooth cream. Characterized by its elegant appearance, the cake often features a stunning presentation with the strawberries arranged around the sides, making it not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Traditionally, fraisier cakes use a Genoise sponge, but variations may include different creams and flavors, offering a versatile option for any occasion.
Why You Should Make It at Home
Making a fraisier cake at home can be a rewarding experience that empowers you to impress friends and family with your baking skills. There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into something so exquisite. Plus, baking at home allows you to control the quality of your ingredients—opt for ripe, organic strawberries and fresh cream, ensuring every slice bursts with flavor.
A Personal Anecdote
I first encountered a fraisier cake at a quaint French bakery while traveling in Paris. The beautiful layers and the vibrant strawberries caught my eye, and one bite transported me to dessert heaven. Since then, it has become a cherished recipe in my home, a go-to for special occasions. Nothing compares to the joy of slicing into that cake and sharing it with loved ones—it's an experience that makes the effort worthwhile!
If this tasty introduction has piqued your interest, let’s dive into the detailed recipe for your very own fraisier cake!
Ingredients for Fraisier Cake
Creating a stunning fraisier cake requires careful selection of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential ingredients for the cake
For the cake base, gather:
- 4 large eggs (room temperature is key)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- ⅓ cup neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
- 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract or paste for flavor
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, balancing sweetness
- 1 ⅓ cups cake flour for a light texture
- 1 teaspoon baking powder to help it rise
This combination lays the foundation for a light and flavorful dessert, making it one of the best introductions to the world of French pastries.
Ingredients for assembling and finishing
You’ll also want:
- Cooking spray for easy release
- 2 pounds of strawberries, preferably small to medium-sized, plus extra for decoration
The freshness of the strawberries is crucial; their sweetness is what makes the cake truly pop!
Components for the cream
For that rich, creamy layer, gather:
- 5 ounces cream cheese (room temperature for smooth mixing)
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)
- 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract or paste for added flavor
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 ½ cups cold heavy cream
These ingredients come together to create a luscious filling, making every bite of your fraisier cake unforgettable.
For more tips, check out this guide on choosing seasonal fruits. Happy baking!
Preparing the Fraisier Cake
Creating a stunning Fraisier Cake can be a rewarding experience, especially when you break it down into manageable steps. Let’s dive deeper into this sweet adventure!
Make the cake batter
To kick off our Fraisier Cake journey, we need to make the cake batter. Start by preheating your oven to 325ºF. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent any sticking. Combine your melted butter, oil, and vanilla in a measuring cup, which will give your cake a rich flavor.
In a stand mixer, whisk together room-temperature eggs until they are light and foamy, then gradually mix in sugar and salt. You want the mixture to be airy and doubled in volume. Once that’s achieved, slowly add the butter mixture and then sift in the cake flour and baking powder. Mix on low speed until combined, then give it a gentle fold with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are well blended.
Bake the cake
Now that we have our batter, pour it into the prepared pan and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. Your cake should be golden brown and a tester inserted in the center must come out clean. After it’s done, let it cool in the pan for about an hour and a half—this helps maintain its moisture.
Prepare strawberries for assembly
While the cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the strawberries that will elevate your Fraisier Cake. Choose 10 to 11 of the most uniform, ripe strawberries. Trim their tops and cut them in half lengthwise. Place the cut strawberries cut-side down on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. This step is crucial for avoiding a soggy cake layer! Prepare additional trimmed strawberries for the center of the cake.
Make the cream filling
You'll want a creamy filling that complements the strawberries. In your stand mixer, beat room-temperature cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Then, slowly incorporate cold heavy cream and whip it until it holds soft peaks. Be careful not to over-whip; you want it light and airy to enhance the texture of your Fraisier Cake.
Assemble the Fraisier Cake
Now for the fun part—assembly! Slice your cooled cake in half horizontally, creating two layers. Use the springform pan to position the bottom layer snugly. Line the strawberry halves around the edges, cut side facing the pan, and evenly distribute whole strawberries cut-side down on top. Spread the cream filling over the strawberries, gently tapping the pan to help settle it all in. Add the top cake layer, cover it with the remaining cream, and refrigerate until it sets.
Feeling inspired? If you're keen on elevating your baking skills further, check out Serious Eats for additional tips and tricks. Happy baking!
Variations on Fraisier Cake
Seasonal fruit variations
One of the best parts of making a fraisier cake is experimenting with seasonal fruits. While classic strawberries are divine, consider swapping them out for fresh raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches during the warmer months. For autumn, why not use figs or sliced apples with a hint of cinnamon? Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile and can transform your cake into a seasonal delight.
Alternate cream flavors
Why stick with the standard vanilla cream when you can mix things up? Try incorporating flavors like lemon zest for a zesty kick or even a splash of coffee for a rich, mocha twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, adding a hint of almond extract brings a lovely nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the fruit. These tweaks will keep your fraisier cake exciting and adaptable to any occasion. For more culinary inspiration, check out sources like Serious Eats for creative ideas.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Fraisier Cake
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
When making a fraisier cake, it's easy to run into a few bumps along the way. One common pitfall is over-mixing the batter; this can lead to a denser cake than you'd like. Make sure to mix until just combined! Also, when whipping the cream, stop as soon as you see soft peaks—over-whipping can result in a grainy texture. Lastly, ensure your strawberries are firm; overly ripe berries can become mushy, affecting the cake's stability.
Storing Leftovers Properly
If you find yourself with leftover fraisier cake, you’ll want to preserve its deliciousness. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, consider wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a storage bag to freeze. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture!
Serving Suggestions for Fraisier Cake
Ideal occasions for serving
The fraisier cake is a stunning dessert ideal for various celebrations. It shines at summer gatherings like birthdays, bridal showers, or garden parties, where its fresh strawberry presentation will steal the show. Consider bringing it to a family picnic or potluck—everyone appreciates a light, fruity treat! Hosting a casual dinner? This cake could serve as the perfect sweet finale, impressing your guests while allowing you ample time to enjoy their company.
Pairing suggestions with beverages
To enhance the delightful flavors of fraisier cake, serve it with a refreshing beverage. Here are a couple of ideas:
- Herbal Tea: A light chamomile or mint tea complements the cake beautifully without overwhelming its taste.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: Adding a splash of lemon or lime to sparkling water offers a zesty contrast.
- Non-alcoholic Punch: A fruity punch with a blend of berry juices can elevate the experience further, making the cake even more irresistible!
By considering these suggestions, you'll ensure your fraiser cake experience is both delightful and memorable. For more cake ideas, check out resources like BBC Good Food or Serious Eats for inspiration!
Time Breakdown for Fraisier Cake
Preparation Time
To kick things off, you'll want to dedicate about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare everything for your fraisier cake. This time includes gathering all your ingredients, mixing, and baking the cake layers until they’re perfectly fluffy.
Cooking Time
Next up, the actual baking takes around 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on your cake towards the end of the baking time to ensure it comes out just right—golden brown and fluffy!
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at approximately 2 hours to 2 hours and 5 minutes before your fraisier cake is all set to chill. Patience is key here, especially while it cools and sets in the fridge.
Remember, the real magic happens while it rests, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully! Interested in more baking tips? Check out resources like King Arthur Baking for additional insights.
Nutritional Facts for Fraisier Cake
Calories per serving
A typical serving of fraisier cake contains approximately 350 calories. This delightful treat is rich in flavor yet light enough to enjoy as a dessert without feeling too indulgent.
Sugar content
Each slice has around 28 grams of sugar, mainly from the strawberries and the cream. While it may seem a bit high, remember that many desserts pack even more sweetness!
Key nutrients
Fraisier cake provides essential nutrients like vitamin C from the fresh strawberries, offering a boost to your immune system. Additionally, it contains calcium and protein from the cream cheese, making this cake a sweet treat with some nutritional benefits! For further reading on the benefits of strawberries, check out the USDA’s Nutrient Database.
FAQs about Fraisier Cake
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! The fraisier cake is even better when it's made ahead of time. Ideally, prepare the cake and assemble it the day before you plan to serve it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the cream sets up perfectly. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated, and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving for the best texture.
What are some tips for decorating the cake?
When it comes to decorating your fraisier cake, here are a few ideas:
- Top with Fresh Berries: Use additional strawberries or even raspberries for a pop of color.
- Whipped Cream Borders: Create elegant borders with whipped cream for a professional finish.
- Chocolate Garnish: A few chocolate shavings can add an artistic touch.
Remember, simplicity often speaks volumes, so don’t overdo it!
Are there gluten-free options for the cake?
Yes! You can make a gluten-free fraisier cake by substituting regular cake flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1. Look for blends that contain xanthan gum for added structure. This small change allows everyone to enjoy this delightful dessert without compromising on taste! For more gluten-free baking tips, check out this helpful guide.
Conclusion on Fraisier Cake
Recap the Joy of Homemade Fraisier Cake
Creating a fraisier cake at home is a delightful experience that combines the beautiful flavors of strawberries and cream with rich, fluffy cake. This charming dessert is not just about taste; it’s about bringing joy to those you share it with, creating memories that last.
Encouragement to Try the Recipe at Home
I encourage you to roll up your sleeves and dive into this recipe. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making your own dessert from scratch. Not only will you impress your friends and family, but you’ll also discover a new favorite treat. Enjoy the process and relish the delicious rewards! For additional baking tips and tricks, you might find inspiration at King Arthur Baking.
Fraisier Cake
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- 9-inch springform pan
- Liquid measuring cup
- Whisk attachment
- Flexible spatula
- Serrated knife
Ingredients
For the cake
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable
- 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract or paste
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1.33 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For assembling and finishing
- cooking spray
- 2 pounds ripe but firm small or medium strawberries (about 1 ½ inches tall)
For the cream
- 5 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1.25 cups powdered sugar, sifted if lumpy
- 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract or paste
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2.5 cups cold heavy cream
Instructions
Make the cake
- Heat the oven to 325ºF. Place a sheet of parchment paper in the 9-inch springform pan and clip the sides.
- Stir the melted butter, neutral oil, and vanilla extract together in a liquid measuring cup.
- Beat the eggs in a stand mixer until foamy. Slowly add the sugar and salt, then beat until lightened in color.
- Increase speed and beat until the batter falls off the whisk in ribbons.
- Pour in the oil mixture and beat until combined.
- Sift the cake flour and baking powder into the bowl. Beat on low speed until just combined.
- Fold the batter a few times with a spatula, ensuring it is well incorporated. Scrape into the springform pan.
- Bake until golden brown, about 30 to 35 minutes. Let it cool completely in the pan.
Prepare for assembling
- Pick out 10 to 11 similarly sized strawberries and trim the tops. Cut in half lengthwise.
- Trim the remainder of the strawberries to the same height as the halves. Run a knife around the cake and remove it from the pan.
Make the cream
- Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt together until smooth.
- Slowly pour in the cold heavy cream and beat until it just holds soft peaks.
Assemble and finish
- Cut the cake in half crosswise. Place the bottom layer in the springform pan.
- Line the strawberry halves around the edge of the cake, assemble whole strawberries cut-side down over the rest.
- Spread about 3 cups of cream over the berries, then top with the remaining layer of cake.
- Spread remaining cream over the top and refrigerate until set, at least 5 hours or overnight.
- Remove the springform ring and parchment paper before serving. Decorate with more strawberries if desired.
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