Raspberry Cream Cheese Layer Cake

There’s something about the combination of tart raspberries and smooth cream cheese that sings of celebration. Whether you’re marking a special day or just want to add a bit of sweetness to your weekend, this Raspberry Cream Cheese Layer Cake is sure to dazzle. Follow this detailed recipe to create a dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup milk

For the Raspberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh raspberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

For the Cream Cheese Layers and Frosting:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional fresh raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release after baking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a larger bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla. Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour to create a smooth batter.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Raspberry Filling:

1. Combine raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously as the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Let it boil for one minute, then remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over it, followed by half of the raspberry filling.
2. Add the second cake layer on top and repeat the process with another layer of cream cheese and the remaining raspberry filling.
3. Use the remaining cream cheese frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake, creating a smooth finish.
4. Garnish the top with fresh raspberries for an eye-catching and delicious decoration.

This Raspberry Cream Cheese Layer Cake is a showstopper that pairs moist, fluffy cake with the rich tang of cream cheese and the sweet punch of raspberries. It’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any day that calls for something special. Enjoy baking and even more so, enjoy indulging in this delightful treat!