What is Chantilly cake made of?

A traditional Chantilly cake is made of moist vanilla sponge cake , layered with sweetened whipped cream —known as Chantilly cream —and topped with fresh berries . Many modern recipes include mascarpone or cream cheese in the frosting to add richness and structure. The cake may also be brushed with simple syrup to keep it extra moist.

What's the difference between whipped cream and Chantilly?

Whipped cream is just heavy cream whipped until light and fluffy , often unsweetened or lightly sweetened. Chantilly cream, however, is sweetened whipped cream that’s often flavored with vanilla extract or vanilla bean , and sometimes stabilized with mascarpone or cream cheese. It’s richer and slightly sweeter than plain whipped cream, making it ideal for layered desserts like a Chantilly cake.

Why is it called Chantilly?

The term “Chantilly” originates from Château de Chantilly in France, where the sweetened vanilla cream was first made famous in the 17th century. The cream, known as crème Chantilly , became a luxurious addition to French desserts. The name carried over to cakes that use this cream extensively, giving us the elegant Chantilly cake .

What flavor is Whole Foods Chantilly cake?

Whole Foods’ famous Berry Chantilly Cake features vanilla sponge cake , layered with mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) and a creamy frosting made with Chantilly cream blended with mascarpone and cream cheese . It has a light, fresh, and fruity flavor, perfectly balanced by the creamy texture.

What does Chantilly cake taste like?

Chantilly cake tastes light, creamy, and mildly sweet . The combination of airy sponge cake , smooth vanilla-flavored Chantilly cream , and tart, juicy berries creates a refreshing and elegant flavor profile. It’s rich without being heavy, and sweet without being overwhelming—perfect for those who enjoy well-balanced desserts.

Why is Chantilly cream so good?

Chantilly cream stands out for its delicate sweetness, airy texture, and rich vanilla flavor . The addition of ingredients like powdered sugar, vanilla extract, or mascarpone transforms basic whipped cream into something much more indulgent and flavorful. It pairs beautifully with fruits and cakes, making it a go-to for elegant desserts.

What Is a Chantilly Cake? 7 Sweet Reasons It's the Best Light Dessert

Name: Classic Chantilly Cake with Fresh Berries
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1½ cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold); ½ cup mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese); ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup strawberries (sliced); 1 cup blueberries; ½ cup raspberries; Optional:; Simple syrup for brushing layers (1:1 sugar and water, boiled and cooled)

Description

This Chantilly cake recipe is light, creamy, and layered with sweetened vanilla cream and fresh berries. Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or elegant celebrations, it’s easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1½ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk

For the Chantilly Cream:

1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
½ cup mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese)
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Fruit Filling:

1 cup strawberries (sliced)
1 cup blueberries
½ cup raspberries
Optional:
Simple syrup for brushing layers (1:1 sugar and water, boiled and cooled)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.

Make the Cake: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Alternately add dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined.

Divide batter into pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.

Make Chantilly Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, combine mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake: Level the cakes if needed. Optionally brush with simple syrup. Layer cake, Chantilly cream, and berries. Repeat and frost top and sides with remaining cream. Decorate with additional fresh fruit.

Chill before serving for at least 2 hours for best texture and slicing.

Notes

Mascarpone can be replaced with softened cream cheese for a tangier flavor.
You can use any combination of seasonal fruits (e.g., peaches, mangoes).
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 1 month.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-American

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