Name: Chantilly Cake Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: New Orleans
Ingredients: 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1-1/2 cups sugar; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-1/3 cups cake flour; 2-1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup 2% milk; 16 ounces mascarpone cheese; 16 ounces cream cheese, softened; 3 cups confectioners’ sugar; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2/3 cup seedless strawberry jam; 2 cups each fresh blueberries, sliced fresh strawberries, and fresh raspberries

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 6 reviews

If you’ve ever strolled through New Orleans during a celebration, the sight of a vibrant, berry-filled Chantilly Cake in a bakery window is bound to stop you in your tracks. This decadent layered delight combines tender vanilla cake, a fluffy mascarpone and cream cheese frosting, and a bounty of fresh berries for a bite that’s sweet, light, and just rich enough to keep you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious cake lover, this recipe makes creating the ultimate Chantilly Cake feel like a festive, joyful treat—right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Chantilly Cake are easy to find, but each plays a special role in building layers of flavor, color, and plush texture. From the creamy frostings to the juicy fresh berries, every component works hand-in-hand to make this cake unforgettable.

Unsalted butter (3/4 cup, softened): Use room temperature butter for a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Sugar (1-1/2 cups): Adds just the right amount of sweetness, balancing the tangy cream cheese and fresh berries.
Large eggs (3, room temperature): Eggs give the cake structure and richness—don’t skip the room temp step for best rise!
Vanilla extract (1-1/2 teaspoons for cake, 2 teaspoons for frosting): Infuses the cake and frosting with warm, fragrant flavor.
Cake flour (2-1/3 cups): Ensures a soft and tender crumb, making each layer light yet sturdy enough to stack.
Baking powder (2-1/2 teaspoons): Gives the cake a lovely, even lift.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Intensifies the flavors and balances the sweetness.
2% milk (3/4 cup): Keeps the cake moist and helps blend the batter to silky smoothness.
Mascarpone cheese (16 ounces): This Italian cheese brings a rich, velvety quality to the frosting.
Cream cheese (16 ounces, softened): Adds tang, stability, and a slight salty bite to the Chantilly frosting.
Confectioners’ sugar (3 cups): Makes the frosting beautifully sweet and cloud-like.
Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Whips up into billowy peaks, lightening the frosting’s texture.
Seedless strawberry jam (2/3 cup): Adds a gorgeous fruity layer between the cake tiers.
Fresh blueberries, raspberries, and sliced strawberries (2 cups each): These berries make the cake look as stunning as it tastes—choose ripe, vibrant fruit for maximum impact.

How to Make Chantilly Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line the bottoms of two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper, then grease the pans and the parchment. This simple prep step ensures your cake layers come out easily and don’t stick—a small detail that makes the assembly mess-free!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 5 to 7 minutes. The more time you spend here, the lighter your Chantilly Cake crumb will be. This airiness is key for classic Southern cakes!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step lets the batter emulsify, making it smooth and luxurious. Then blend in the vanilla extract; you should notice the scent instantly turn richer and warmer.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients on their own helps prevent uneven leavening and ensures your cakes rise beautifully.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with flour, mixing on low after each addition just until incorporated. This keeps the crumb extra tender, ready for those luscious fillings and frostings.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops. Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then gently turn out onto wire racks and peel off the parchment. Cool completely before assembling—it’s worth the wait, I promise!

Step 7: Make the Chantilly Frosting

For the star of this Chantilly Cake, beat together the mascarpone and cream cheese until completely blended and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and beat until smooth. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the cheese mixture. The result? An airy, melt-in-your-mouth frosting that makes this cake unforgettable.

Step 8: Layer With Jam, Berries, and Frosting

Once your cakes are cool, carefully slice each layer in half horizontally, making four total layers. Spread one-third of the strawberry jam over a cut side, top with about 1 cup of frosting, then scatter a generous layer of mixed berries. Gently add another cake layer and repeat, stacking and pressing down lightly with each addition. This layering is where the magic happens!

Step 9: Frost and Decorate

Use the remaining frosting to generously cover the top and sides of your assembled cake, swirling for dramatic effect. Decorate with the remaining berries—pile them high for that festive, bakery-style finish. Your Chantilly Cake is ready to dazzle any table.

How to Serve Chantilly Cake

Garnishes

The best garnish for Chantilly Cake is an extra tumble of fresh berries across the top, plus a sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar for a snowy, elegant finish. For special occasions, add edible flowers or a few sprigs of fresh mint for a pop of color and a touch of whimsy.

Side Dishes

This cake is already quite a showstopper, so pair it with simple sides. A pot of fragrant hot tea or a glass of Prosecco both enhance the cake’s creamy notes. If you want a classic Southern touch, freshly brewed café au lait brings out the berry flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Chantilly Cake sliced on vintage dessert plates for timeless charm, or try stacking mini cakes by cutting rounds with a biscuit cutter—perfect for baby showers, birthdays, or brunch spreads. For an elegant twist, serve with a dollop of whipped cream and more berries on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Chantilly Cake in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Because of the fresh berries and rich frosting, it’s best enjoyed within 2 or 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits—but don’t expect it to last long!

Freezing

If you need to freeze the cake, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best results, freeze without fresh berries on top, and add them before serving. Thaw overnight in the fridge for a fresh-tasting slice anytime.

Reheating

Chantilly Cake is best enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature. If you’re pulling a slice from the fridge, let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving. This brings out both the delicate flavor of the cake and the creamy texture of the frosting—no reheating required!

FAQs

Can I use different berries or fruit?

Absolutely! While blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are classic, you can swap in blackberries, sliced cherries, or even kiwi for a unique twist on this traditional Chantilly Cake.

Can I make Chantilly Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the cake layers and frosting a day ahead. Assemble just before serving, or assemble and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours for best freshness and texture.

What if I don’t have mascarpone?

If mascarpone isn’t available, you can substitute with more cream cheese or a blend of cream cheese and heavy cream. The flavor will be a bit tangier, but your Chantilly Cake will still be luscious!

How do I keep the cake from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, make sure your cake layers are completely cooled before adding jam and berries. A thin layer of frosting between the cake and fruit also acts as a moisture barrier.

Can I make this gluten free?

Yes! Substitute the cake flour for a gluten-free baking blend designed for cakes and follow the same steps. Check that any other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Chantilly Cake is truly a celebration on a plate. Treat yourself (and your lucky friends) to a slice of this Southern gem, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to for every special occasion. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it again and again!