A Berry Sour Cream Cake is a delightful combination of rich flavors and moist texture, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. This cake is packed with the goodness of assorted berries and the creamy tartness of sour cream, which contributes to its unique taste and soft crumb. Ideal for brunch, afternoon tea, or dessert after a family meal, this cake is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delectable flavor.
Ingredients
To make the perfect Berry Sour Cream Cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together, adding moisture, and contributing to the cake’s structure.
- 90g (approx. ½ cup) sugar: This sweetener enhances flavor and helps achieve a light, airy texture when whipped with eggs.
- 80ml (approx. ⅓ cup) vegetable oil: Provides moisture and helps keep the cake tender. It can be replaced with other neutral oils if desired.
- 60g (approx. ¼ cup) sour cream: Adds a rich, tangy flavor and contributes to the cake’s moistness.
- 140g (approx. 1 cup) all-purpose flour: This is the primary structure-building ingredient in the cake, providing stability and texture.
- 10g (approx. 2 tsp) baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 30g (approx. ¼ cup) cornstarch: Lightens the texture of the cake, resulting in a tender crumb, plus 1 tbsp for coating the berries.
- 400g (approx. 2½ cups) frozen berries: Adds natural sweetness and color to the cake. You can mix varieties such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Berries
Start by preparing your frozen berries. Thaw them slightly to avoid excess moisture in the cake. After thawing, toss the berries in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This coating not only prevents the berries from sinking to the bottom but also helps maintain the structure of the cake.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line an 8-inch round or square baking pan with parchment paper. This helps in easy removal of the cake after baking, ensuring it retains its shape.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes light, pale, and slightly thickened. This process incorporates air, contributing to a fluffier cake. Next, progressively add in the vegetable oil and sour cream, blending until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cornstarch. Sifting helps eliminate lumps and ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour. Carefully fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can result in a denser cake.
Step 5: Add the Berries
Gently fold the coated berries into the batter, taking care to avoid vigorous stirring, which can break them apart and color the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Transfer the final batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should have a light golden hue.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can serve the cake plain or dust it with powdered sugar for added sweetness and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Berry Garnish: Serve the cake topped with fresh berries to enhance the berry flavor and add color.
- Whipped Cream: Pair with whipped cream or a dollop of sour cream for a contrasting texture and flavor.
- Ice Cream Delight: Serve warm slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream.
- Coffee Companion: This cake is perfect alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for afternoon gatherings.
Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and incorporation of ingredients.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined to maintain a light texture.
- Baking Pan Size: Stick to the specified 8-inch round or square pan to ensure even baking; different sizes may alter baking times.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test doneness. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready; if it has wet batter, it needs more time.
- Storing the Cake: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. The cake will last for up to 3 days at room temperature or can be refrigerated for up to a week.
Nutritional Benefits
The Berry Sour Cream Cake not only tastes amazing but includes ingredients that provide various nutritional benefits:
- Eggs: A great source of protein and essential nutrients.
- Sour Cream: Adds calcium and helps keep the cake moist, with beneficial bacteria for gut health.
- Berries: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, contributing to overall wellness.
FAQs
Can I substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative?
Yes, you can use alternatives such as Stevia or coconut sugar, adjusting the quantity according to their sweetness levels.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can replace sour cream with plain yogurt or make a homemade version using milk and vinegar or lemon juice mixed together.
Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh berries can be used. However, be cautious with moisture levels, as fresh berries are juicier than frozen.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?
Consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to the batter for added depth of flavor.
Conclusion
The Berry Sour Cream Cake is a beautifully moist and flavorful dessert that captures the essence of fresh berries blended with the richness of sour cream. This cake stands out not only for its taste but also for its lovely appearance, making it ideal for celebrations or casual gatherings. Whether enjoyed simply with a dusting of powdered sugar or dressed up with whipped cream and berries, this cake will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy baking, sharing, and indulging in this delightful treat with family and friends!