What is a Chantilly cake made of?

A traditional Chantilly cake is made with light vanilla sponge layers , a rich and fluffy Chantilly cream frosting (typically a blend of mascarpone, heavy cream, and powdered sugar), and fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Some versions also include almond or vanilla syrup brushed on the cake layers to enhance moisture and flavor.

Why is it called a Chantilly cake?

The name comes from Crème Chantilly , a French term for sweetened whipped cream . While the original French version uses just whipped cream and sugar, modern American adaptations—like the popular Whole Foods version—include mascarpone and cream cheese for a richer, more stable frosting. The cake is built around this creamy element, giving it the name “Chantilly cake.”

How is Chantilly different from whipped cream?

Though similar in look and feel, Chantilly cream is richer and denser than traditional whipped cream. It often includes mascarpone or cream cheese , making it sturdier and more flavorful. While whipped cream is light and airy, Chantilly cream has a more luxurious mouthfeel and holds its shape better for cake assembly.

Is Whole Foods discontinuing the Chantilly cake?

There have been rumors online about Whole Foods discontinuing their Berry Chantilly Cake, but as of now, there is no official confirmation of this happening nationwide. Some regional stores may have temporary supply issues or changes, but the cake remains a top-selling favorite in most locations.

Why is Chantilly cream so good?

Chantilly cream is loved for its balanced sweetness, creamy texture, and versatility . The mascarpone adds richness, the whipped cream adds airiness, and the sugar enhances the flavor without being overpowering. It pairs beautifully with fruits, sponge cakes, and even pastries, making it a favorite among bakers and dessert lovers alike.

What liquid do bakers put on cake layers?

Bakers often brush cake layers with a simple syrup —a mixture of sugar and water , sometimes flavored with vanilla, almond extract, citrus juice, or liqueurs . This keeps the cake moist and flavorful , especially in layered cakes like Chantilly where dryness can ruin the texture.

Chantilly Cake: The Best Homemade Recipe & Baking Secrets (2025 Guide)

Name: Chantilly Cake with Fresh Berries
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American-French Fusion
Ingredients: 2½ cups all-purpose flour; 2½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1¾ cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk; 1½ cups heavy whipping cream; 8 oz mascarpone cheese; 4 oz cream cheese (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Optional: almond extract (¼ tsp); 1 cup sliced strawberries; ½ cup blueberries; ½ cup raspberries; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tsp sugar; Optional Cake Soak Syrup:; ½ cup water; ½ cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla or almond extract

Description

A soft vanilla sponge cake layered with rich mascarpone Chantilly cream and fresh berries. This homemade version of the famous Whole Foods Chantilly cake is perfect for birthdays, brunches, and elegant gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake Layers:

2½ cups all-purpose flour
2½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk or buttermilk

For the Chantilly Cream:

1½ cups heavy whipping cream
8 oz mascarpone cheese
4 oz cream cheese (optional)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: almond extract (¼ tsp)

For the Fruit Filling:

1 cup sliced strawberries
½ cup blueberries
½ cup raspberries
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp sugar
Optional Cake Soak Syrup:
½ cup water
½ cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla or almond extract

Instructions

Bake the sponge layers, make Chantilly cream, prepare fruits, soak cake, layer with cream & fruit, frost, decorate, and chill.

Notes

Use buttermilk instead of milk for extra moistness.
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.
Best served chilled.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American-French Fusion

Keywords: chantilly cake, berry chantilly, mascarpone cream cake, Whole Foods cake, vanilla sponge with fruit