Chantilly Cake Recipe with Berries and Cream Frosting

Looking for a dessert that’s light, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet? This Chantilly cake recipe is the perfect treat for birthdays, celebrations, or simply when you want to enjoy something beautiful and delicious. With fluffy vanilla cake layers, rich Chantilly cream frosting, and fresh berries, it’s as elegant as it is easy to make.

Let’s dive into how you can make this classic cake at home with simple ingredients and clear steps.

What Is Chantilly Cake?

Chantilly cake is a layered vanilla cake filled with sweetened whipped cream (often mascarpone or cream cheese-based) and fresh fruit. If you’re looking for a classic base, try our easy vanilla cake recipe to practice before assembling the full Chantilly cake. While inspired by French cuisine, the version that’s popular in the Southern U.S. often includes berries and a mascarpone frosting.

Foods like Whole Foods’ Berry Chantilly Cake have made this dessert even more well-known, but you can create your own version right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Chantilly Cake Recipe

• Light and fluffy cake layers
• Fresh berries in every bite
• Sweet cream frosting that’s not too heavy
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Beautiful presentation for special occasions

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Vanilla Cake Layers:

• 2 1/2 cups cake flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)

For the Chantilly Cream Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)

For the Filling and Topping:

• 2 cups fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
• Optional: 2 tbsp simple syrup for brushing cake layers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vanilla Cake Layers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In another bowl, beat butter, oil, and sugar with a stand mixer until light and fluffy.
5. Add eggs one at a time. Mix well.
6. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Add dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately in three batches, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
8. Divide batter evenly into the cake pans.
9. Bake for 23–28 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

2. Make the Chantilly Cream Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and mascarpone until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix until creamy.
3. In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream to stiff peaks.
4. Gently fold whipped cream into cheese mixture. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Cake

1. Level cake layers using a serrated knife.
2. Optionally, brush layers with simple syrup for added moisture.
3. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate.
4. Spread a layer of Chantilly cream and top with fresh berries.
5. Repeat with the next layers.
6. Frost the top and sides of the cake with remaining cream.
7. Decorate with more berries on the top of the cake.
8. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Chantilly Cake

• Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients.
• Whip cream properly to stiff peaks for a firm frosting.
• Chill your mixing bowl before whipping cream.
• Dry berries well before layering to prevent sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Chantilly cake last?

Stored in the fridge, it lasts 3 to 4 days. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve moisture.

Can I freeze Chantilly cake?

You can freeze the cake layers ahead of time, but it’s best to add the frosting and fruit fresh.

What’s the difference between Chantilly cream and whipped cream?

Chantilly cream is typically sweetened whipped cream, often enriched with mascarpone or cream cheese (according to Le Cordon Bleu) for extra stability and flavor.

What’s the difference between Chantilly cake and tres leches?

While both are soft and creamy, Tres Leches cake is soaked in three kinds of milk, creating a very moist texture.

Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely. Try peaches, kiwi, or mango for a tropical twist.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free cake flour.
• Dairy-free option: Try coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
• Mini cakes: Use cupcake pans for individual servings.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for birthdays, showers, or holidays
• Pairs well with coffee or sparkling wine
• Serve cold for a refreshing finish to a meal

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make cake layers a day ahead and wrap tightly in plastic.
• Frosting can be made up to 24 hours in advance.
• Assemble the day of serving for freshest results.

Tools You’ll Need

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cake pans (8-inch)
• Serrated knife
• Offset spatula (for frosting)

Final Thoughts

This Chantilly cake recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s as light and refreshing as it is beautiful. With just a few common ingredients and easy steps, you can make a dessert that looks impressive and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery.

Whether it’s your first time baking a layered cake or you’re a seasoned pro, give this one a try. You’ll love the balance of fluffy vanilla cake, creamy frosting, and juicy berries.

Try this recipe today and impress your guests—or just treat yourself.

Got a question or favorite variation? Share your thoughts below or tag your creation online!