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There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming ordinary moments into something extraordinary, and that’s exactly what you’ll find with this Homemade Chantilly Cake. Picture this: it’s a sunny afternoon, and friends gather for a casual get-together. Amid laughter and chatter, I unveil this three-layer beauty, each slice adorned with a symphony of fresh berries. It’s not just a cake; it’s a sweet canvas that celebrates the magic of flavors and textures.

The creamy vegan mascarpone and rich Chantilly cream blend effortlessly, making each bite feel luxurious yet guilt-free. This cake is perfect for anyone tired of mundane desserts or seeking a showstopper for their next event. Trust me, with its aroma wafting through the kitchen and a burst of fresh fruit on top, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Whether it’s for a birthday or simply a treat for yourself, this recipe is your ticket to indulgence without compromise. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Chantilly Cake!

Why is Chantilly Cake a Must-Try?

Decadent delight: This cake is a sensational blend of flavors, from the rich vegan mascarpone to the light, airy Chantilly cream. Vibrant toppings: The medley of fresh berries not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the cake’s refreshing taste. Simplicity: With straightforward steps and easily found ingredients, you’ll impress your guests without stress. Versatile showstopper: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy gathering or a grand celebration. Ready for more delicious vegan options? Explore other vegan baking recipes that will wow your family and friends!

Chantilly Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• Salted vegan butter – adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the cake, balancing flavors so everyone loves the Chantilly Cake.
• Unsweetened applesauce or dairy-free yogurt – serves as a moistening agent, which keeps the cake tender.
• Vanilla extract – imparts a warm, comforting aroma to the cake.
• Almond extract – provides a subtle nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste.
• Baking powder – helps the cake rise, creating a light texture.
• Baking soda – works in harmony with the baking powder for the perfect lift.
• Sea salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• All-purpose flour – serves as the backbone of the cake; gluten-free substitute works just as well.
• Dairy-free milk – keeps the batter moist and adds creaminess without dairy.

For the Chantilly Cream
• Vegan mascarpone – gives a creamy, rich texture to the frosting.
• Vegan heavy cream – whips beautifully to create light and fluffy layers.
• Powdered sugar – sweetens the cream for that classic frosting flavor.
• Cornstarch – stabilizes the whipped cream, ensuring it holds its shape.
• Vanilla bean paste – adds depth and a lovely speckled appearance to the cream.

For the Topping
• Strawberries, sliced – brightens the cake with their juicy sweetness.
• Blackberries – contribute a tangy contrast, enhancing the visual appeal.
• Raspberries – add a pop of color and tartness for balance.
• Blueberries – round out the berry medley, offering a sweet and juicy bite.

How to Make Chantilly Cake

Prepare the mascarpone: Start by following your chosen method to make vegan mascarpone. It’s essential to chill it immediately to achieve the right texture later.
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch cake pans by lining them with parchment paper. This ensures a smooth release after baking.
Mix the cake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted vegan butter, granulated sugar, applesauce or yogurt, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth. Then, incorporate the baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Finally, add the flour and dairy-free milk, gently mixing until everything is well combined.
Bake the cake layers: Evenly distribute the batter into the three prepared pans. Bake for 27-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cakes are light golden.
Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Wrap them in plastic wrap once completely cooled and store in the fridge for assembly the next day.
Chill your mixing bowl: Place a large mixing bowl in the freezer for about 20 minutes to chill. This will help achieve fluffy Chantilly cream.
Whip the Chantilly cream: Remove the chilled bowl from the freezer and add the cold vegan heavy cream. Using a hand mixer, whip until stiff peaks form, approximately 5 minutes. Then incorporate the powdered sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla bean paste, whipping again before adding in the chilled mascarpone and mixing until fully integrated. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Assemble the cake: On a serving plate, place one cooled cake layer. Spread about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the Chantilly cream on top, reaching the edges. Scatter a portion of the mixed berries over the cream, then layer another cake on top. Repeat the process with the cream and berries, finishing with the final cake layer.
Frost the cake: Use the remaining Chantilly cream to frost the entire outside of the assembled cake. Chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour to set.
Decorate the cake: Once chilled, garnish the cake with any remaining Chantilly cream and additional fresh berries. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Enjoy! Serve the cake cold. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, although I doubt it’ll last that long!

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chantilly Cake?

Imagine a delightful gathering where your beautiful cake takes center stage, elevated by the perfect accompaniments that enhance every bite.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of sweet and tangy fruits brightens your dessert table. The vibrant colors and fresh taste complement the richness of the Chantilly Cake beautifully.
Vegan Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, a scoop of vegan ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the cake’s texture. It’s a perfect treat for warm days or any celebration!
Herbal Tea: Infuse your occasion with warm, calming flavors. A fragrant herbal tea relaxes guests while enhancing the gentle sweetness of the cake.
Chocolate Drizzle: A rich, dark chocolate sauce can be drizzled over each slice, introducing a bold flavor contrast. The combination of chocolate and berries is pure decadence!
Coconut Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy, this topping adds another layer of creamy texture without dairy. It’s a great alternative for those who want an extra indulgent touch.
Sparkling Water: Refreshing and bubbly, sparkling water with a slice of lemon cleanses the palate, allowing the flavors of the Chantilly Cake to shine through with every bite.
Lemon Sorbet: A zesty, cool sorbet serves as a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet layers of the cake. Each spoonful will invigorate and harmonize perfectly with the dessert.
Almond Biscotti: These crunchy treats are perfect for dipping alongside each slice. Their nutty flavor pairs delightfully with the fruity and creamy elements of the cake.

Expert Tips for the Best Chantilly Cake

Perfect Mascarpone: Ensure your vegan mascarpone is chilled thoroughly before use. This ensures a rich, creamy texture that integrates beautifully in the Chantilly cream.

Measuring Flour: Use the spoon-and-level technique when measuring flour. This avoids dense cake layers, giving your Chantilly Cake the lightness it deserves.

Avoid Overmixing: Mix the cake batter until just combined to maintain airiness. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cake, so be gentle with your whisk!

Cool Completely: Always make sure the cake layers are completely cooled before frosting. This prevents melting and sogginess, ensuring a lovely presentation.

Chill Your Tools: For the best Chantilly cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters for a few minutes in the freezer before whipping. This helps achieve the desired fluffy consistency quickly.

Extra Berries: Don’t be shy with the berry toppings! They not only enhance the visual appeal but also balance the sweetness of the Chantilly Cake, creating a delightful flavor contrast.

Storage Tips for Chantilly Cake

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps the layers moist and the Chantilly cream fluffy.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy your Chantilly Cake later, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating: To thaw frozen slices, place them in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, microwave on low for about 15-20 seconds.

Serving Suggestion: For the best flavor, serve the cake cold, allowing the fresh berries to shine with each bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Chantilly Cakes are fantastic for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can make the cake layers and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, ensuring they stay moist and ready for assembly. Additionally, whip the Chantilly cream a day ahead; just store it in the fridge in an airtight container for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the cake with the chilled layers and cream, adding your favorite berries as decoration. This way, you’ll impress your guests with minimal effort and maximize your time!

Chantilly Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your unique twists to this delightful cake, and make it your own!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 blend and add 1 tbsp of arrowroot or cornstarch for extra fluffiness.
Sugar-Free: Use a sugar alternative like erythritol for the cake and whipped cream, allowing you to enjoy sweetness without the calories.
Fruit Flavors: Swap out the mixed berries with seasonal fruits like peaches or mangoes for a vibrant twist on freshness.
Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the cake batter for added texture and flavor variety.
Chocolate Bliss: Add cocoa powder into your dry ingredients or fold in chocolate chips to create a rich, chocolaty layer that everyone will adore.
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different extracts—try coconut or hazelnut for a delightful change to the classic vanilla and almond notes.
Zesty Boost: Add the zest of a lemon or orange into the batter, giving the cake a vibrant citrusy kick that balances the sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the fruit toppings.

Chantilly Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use for the Chantilly Cake?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and free from dark spots or mold. They should be fragrant and somewhat glossy. When selecting berries, the fresher they are, the better they’ll taste on your cake!

How should I store leftover Chantilly Cake?
To maintain its fresh flavor, store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps both the cake layers and the Chantilly cream nice and moist, making sure each slice is as delightful as the first.

Can I freeze Chantilly Cake?
Very! To freeze, first wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. This method will help prevent freezer burn. The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw.

What should I do if my Chantilly cream isn’t whipping up?
If your cream isn’t reaching stiff peaks, make sure your bowl and beaters are very cold—chilling them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes can help. Also, ensure you’re using cold vegan heavy cream. If it still doesn’t whip, try adding a bit more cornstarch to stabilize it. Remember, the longer you whip, the fluffier it will get, so don’t rush this step!

Is this Chantilly Cake suitable for allergies?
Yes! This Chantilly Cake is vegan and dairy-free, so it’s a great option for those with dairy allergies. If you’re concerned about nut allergies due to the almond extract, you could simply omit it or substitute with an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract. Always double-check labels to ensure all ingredients are allergy-friendly.

How can I prevent my cake layers from being too dense?
For light and fluffy layers, be sure to measure your flour correctly—use the spoon-and-level method rather than scooping directly from the bag. Mix your batter just until combined to avoid activating gluten, which can make the cake dense. Keeping things gentle is key to achieving that perfect airy texture!