Raspberry Layer Cake Recipe

Some desserts just beg to be the centerpiece of a celebration, and the Raspberry Layer Cake is one of those stunning sweets that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Picture impossibly soft vanilla cake layers, a billowy cloud of real raspberries folded gently into whipped cream, and a perfectly pink, dreamy buttercream that’s practically begging you to dig in. It’s a cake I love baking for birthdays, spring gatherings, or any time I want to wow my friends and family—each bite bursting with bright berry flavor and luscious texture. If you’re ready for a showstopper cake that’s as delicious as it is beautiful, this one’s for you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

While this Raspberry Layer Cake looks impressive, the beauty is in its simple, familiar ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building flavor, structure, and the vibrant, dreamy colors that put this cake in a class all its own.

• All-purpose flour: Gives your cake structure without making it dense, for that perfect, tender crumb.
• Baking powder: Helps your layers rise high, ensuring a soft and airy texture.
• Salt: Just a touch brings out all the sweet, rich flavors in the cake.
• Unsalted butter (for cake & frosting): Adds rich flavor and creaminess to both the cake and pink buttercream.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake while contributing to its golden crumb.
• Eggs: Bind your batter and add moisture, so every bite is tender.
• Vanilla extract: Essential for that warm, classic cake flavor.
• Buttermilk (or milk + vinegar): Keeps the cake layers extra moist and adds a slight tang for balance.
• Heavy whipping cream: Makes the raspberry filling extra light and fluffy.
• Powdered sugar (for filling & frosting): Sweetens and stabilizes your whipped cream; also creates silky buttercream frosting.
• Fresh raspberries: The star of the filling, bringing real fruit brightness and juicy color.
• Food coloring: Just a drop or two gives that signature pretty pink hue.
• White chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional): Add festive garnish and a touch of luxury to the finished Raspberry Layer Cake.

How to Make Raspberry Layer Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment for easy release. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in one bowl. In another, cream the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy; this will take a few minutes. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then add vanilla. Mix in the dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately, beginning and ending with dry. Be gentle and avoid over-mixing for tender cake! Divide the batter evenly between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden, springy, and a tester comes out clean. Let them cool completely—resist the urge to rush this part, as cool layers make for easier assembly and a neater cake.

Step 2: Whip Up the Raspberry Filling

While the cake cools, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until you have stiff peaks. Gently fold in the mashed fresh raspberries, trying not to deflate the cream too much. This part is pure magic—the filling will be beautifully streaked with raspberry pink and have soft, juicy fruit throughout.

Step 3: Make the Pink Buttercream Frosting

In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing as you go to avoid lumps. Pour in heavy cream, vanilla, and tiny drops of red or pink food coloring until you reach a fluffy, scoopable, pastel-pink frosting. It’s important to add the food coloring a little at a time to avoid overdoing the color. The result should be dreamy and light—just the right backdrop for your Raspberry Layer Cake.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Lay your first cake layer on a serving plate and spread with half of the raspberry cream filling. Gently add the next layer and repeat. Place the final cake layer on top. Smear a thin crumb coat of pink buttercream around the sides and top, then chill for about 20 minutes. Finish with a generous layer of buttercream, smoothing the sides and swirling decoratively on top. Piping a few extra swirls or ruffles brings this cake to the next level of celebration-worthy!

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Just before serving, arrange fresh raspberries over the top and, if you like, shower on some white chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of pastel confetti. Chill the cake until you’re ready to slice—for best texture, let it sit at room temperature about 20 minutes before serving so the buttercream softens and every bite is as luscious as intended.

How to Serve Raspberry Layer Cake

Garnishes

The classic finish for a Raspberry Layer Cake is a generous scatter of fresh raspberries right on top, which hints at the flavors inside. If you want more flair, try curls of white chocolate or a light dusting of powdered sugar for snowy elegance. Edible flowers or pink sprinkles can turn your cake into a centerpiece fit for any party table.

Side Dishes

Since the Raspberry Layer Cake is bright and luscious, pair it with refreshing accompaniments like a glass of cold milk or fresh berry lemonade. For a more decadent spread, serve it alongside vanilla ice cream; the creamy chill is delicious with the tender cake. A platter of extra fresh berries is also a welcome, no-fuss side that keeps the whole dessert experience light and fruity.

Creative Ways to Present

This cake adapts to many occasions! Slice it into tall, elegant wedges for a plated dessert extravaganza, or use a big, rustic slab for family gatherings. Cupcake versions are a hit at showers—just layer mini cakes with the filling and swirl on the pink frosting. For an extra-special look, use a rotating cake stand to show off the beautiful sides, or surround the base with greenery and berries for a spring or summer celebration vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Raspberry Layer Cake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent absorbing fridge odors. The cream filling and buttercream stay luscious, and the cake layers remain moist!

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead or save some for later, freeze individual cake layers (without frosting or filling) wrapped in plastic and foil for up to two months. Fully assembled slices can also be frozen, although the texture of the whipped cream may change slightly. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results.

Reheating

Raspberry Layer Cake is best enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature—there’s no need to reheat. If you’ve frozen your cake, let it slowly thaw in the refrigerator, then allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes to bring out the full depth of its flavors before slicing and serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Thaw and drain frozen raspberries well, then gently mash before folding into the whipped cream. This can intensify the color and still gives wonderful berry flavor.

What if I only have two cake pans?

No problem. Just bake two thicker layers, increasing the baking time a little and checking with a toothpick. You can also bake in batches if needed—the results will still be delicious!

Can the Raspberry Layer Cake be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour, making sure it’s intended for baking and contains xanthan gum or an appropriate binder.

How far in advance can I assemble the cake?

For best freshness, assemble the Raspberry Layer Cake the day you plan to serve it, but it can be put together up to 24 hours ahead. Just store, covered, in the refrigerator until ready to slice.

What’s the secret to a super fluffy buttercream?

Always start with room-temperature butter, and beat it well before adding the sugar. Add cream slowly, and keep beating until you see the frosting become airy and pale for the most luscious results.

Final Thoughts

This Raspberry Layer Cake isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to bring a burst of berry joy to your day, this cake delivers every time. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend or two to help, and get ready to slice into something spectacular—you’ll be amazed by how quickly it disappears!

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