Ingredients

For the Sponge Cake

• Eggs – 3
• Sugar – 90g (6 tbsp)
• Salt – a pinch
• Flour – 90g (1/2 cup + 1 tbsp)
• Baking Powder – 1/2 tsp
• Lemon Zest – from 1 lemon
• Boiling Water – 15g (1 tbsp)
• Baking Pan – 28x18cm

For the Cream Filling

• Sour Cherries – 300g (2 cups), pitted
• Strawberries – 500g (3 cups), chopped
• Sugar – 60g (4 tbsp)
• Water – 200g (4/5 cup)
• Gelatin – 18g (6 tsp), dissolved in water
• Additional Water – 120g (1/2 cup) for dissolving gelatin
• Sour Cream – 600g (2.5 cups), 30% fat
• Cream – 200g (1 cup), 33% fat
• Powdered Sugar – 100g (5/6 cup)

For the Jelly Layer

• Gelatin – 6g (2 tsp)
• Water – 20g (2 tbsp) for dissolving gelatin
• Cherry Juice – reserved from cherries

Instructions

Making the Sponge Cake

1. Prepare the Batter: Preheat the oven to 180℃ (356℉). In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt until light and fluffy. Add the lemon zest for a burst of citrus aroma.
2. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gently fold it into the egg mixture until just combined. Add the boiling water, stirring gently to achieve a smooth batter.
3. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased and lined 28x18cm baking pan. Smooth the surface and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing.

Preparing the Cream Filling

1. Prepare the Fruits: In a saucepan, combine sour cherries, strawberries, sugar, and 200g of water. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 5 minutes until the fruit softens and releases its juices. Strain and reserve the juice for the jelly layer.
2. Dissolve the Gelatin: In a small bowl, mix 18g of gelatin with 120g of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to bloom, then gently heat it until fully dissolved. Allow it to cool slightly.
3. Make the Cream Mixture: In a large bowl, whip the sour cream, heavy cream, and powdered sugar until smooth and thick. Fold in the dissolved gelatin mixture, ensuring even distribution.
4. Combine with Fruits: Gently fold the prepared cherries and strawberries into the cream mixture. Spread the cream filling evenly over the cooled sponge cake layer. Place the cake in the refrigerator to set for about 30 minutes.

Adding the Jelly Layer

1. Dissolve the Gelatin for Jelly: In a small bowl, bloom 6g of gelatin in 20g of water. After a few minutes, heat it gently until completely dissolved.
2. Combine with Cherry Juice: Mix the dissolved gelatin into the reserved cherry juice. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Pour and Set: Pour the cherry jelly over the cream layer, ensuring it spreads evenly across the top. Return the cake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the jelly is fully set.

Serving

• Carefully slice and serve this beautiful layered cake chilled. Garnish with extra berries if desired.

Prep Time

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18g

Servings

• Serves: 8-10 people

Explanation: Why This Recipe is Timeless

Berry Cream Layer Cake with Cherry Jelly is a timeless dessert because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor, texture, and visual appeal. This cake is easy to love: the light and fluffy sponge cake, the creamy and fruit-filled layer, and the beautiful, jewel-toned jelly on top make it a show-stopper. The layers are refreshing, sweet, and slightly tart, creating a dessert that doesn’t feel heavy, making it ideal for all occasions, from summer gatherings to holiday feasts.

The vibrant colors of the berries, combined with the soft textures, make this cake a delight for the eyes and the taste buds. It’s a dessert that can be customized based on the season, with different fruits and flavors, making it both versatile and timeless. With a combination of classic ingredients and a sophisticated presentation, this cake is destined to become a favorite for generations.

Tips for Making the Perfect Berry Cream Layer Cake

1. Choose Fresh, Ripe Fruits: Fresh berries will provide the best flavor, so choose ripe, juicy cherries and strawberries.
2. Prevent Gelatin Clumping: When dissolving gelatin, ensure it is fully bloomed and dissolved before adding it to other ingredients.
3. Cool Each Layer Completely: Allow each layer to set before adding the next, ensuring a clean, distinct layered effect.
4. Customize the Flavor: Try adding a splash of liqueur, like Kirsch, to the cream filling for an added layer of flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: This cake should be stored in the refrigerator due to its creamy filling and jelly layer. Cover with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. It will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the gelatin in the jelly and cream filling may alter the texture when thawed

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different fruits?
Yes! Raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries would work well in place of cherries or strawberries.

2. How can I make the cake dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or dairy-free sour cream substitutes for the cream filling, and ensure any replacements are suitable for whipping.

3. How do I ensure the jelly layer sets properly?
Be sure the jelly is completely cool before pouring it over the cream layer. Chilling the cake thoroughly will also help it set perfectly.

4. Can I skip the gelatin?
Gelatin is essential for the jelly layer and helps stabilize the cream filling. If you cannot use gelatin, look for plant-based alternatives like agar-agar.

Conclusion

Berry Cream Layer Cake with Cherry Jelly is a spectacular dessert that delivers in both flavor and presentation. It’s a multi-layered treat that feels like a celebration in every bite, with fluffy sponge cake, creamy fruit filling, and a glistening cherry jelly topping. Not only does it taste delightful, but it also looks stunning on any dessert table. With the bright flavors of cherries and strawberries balanced by the smooth, creamy layers, this cake offers a refreshing twist on traditional desserts.

Perfect for special occasions or simply as a weekend treat, this dessert is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again, a true classic that bridges the gap between traditional flavors and modern presentation. Whether for family gatherings, birthdays, or holidays, Berry Cream Layer Cake with Cherry Jelly is bound to become a cherished favorite.