Cream cake, with its luscious layers of light and airy sponge, velvety whipped cream, and an array of delightful fillings, is the epitome of indulgence. This timeless dessert is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through the process of creating a dreamy cream cake that will dazzle your taste buds and leave your guests wanting more.
Cream cake is a versatile dessert that offers endless opportunities for creativity. The key elements are a tender sponge cake and a creamy filling, which can range from classic whipped cream to more elaborate options like pastry cream, fruit curd, or flavored mousses. The result is a dessert that’s light, delicate, and a perfect canvas for decoration and flavor combinations.
Ingredients:
For the Sponge Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Cream Filling:
- 2 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Filling (Choose One or More):
- Fresh berries (e.g., strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Fruit curd (e.g., lemon, raspberry, passionfruit)
- Chocolate ganache
- Pastry cream
- Fruit compote
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Sponge Cake
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
- Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Cream Filling
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will be your creamy filling.
Step 6: Assemble the Cream Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of your chosen filling (e.g., fruit curd, chocolate ganache) over the cake layer. Then, spread a generous layer of the whipped cream filling on top. If using fresh berries or fruit compote, add them over the whipped cream.
Step 7: Add the Second Layer
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the filling.
Step 8: Frost and Decorate
- Frost the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream, smoothing it out evenly. You can decorate the cake with additional fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or other creative touches.
Step 9: Chill and Serve
- Chill the cream cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps set the cream and allows the flavors to meld. Slice and enjoy!
A cream cake is a timeless dessert that brings elegance and delight to any occasion. Its soft, fluffy sponge paired with luscious cream and a choice of fillings makes it a versatile and unforgettable treat. With a little creativity and patience, you can create a cream cake that not only tastes heavenly but also looks stunning. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a journey to create a dreamy cream cake that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your guests. Happy baking!