Easy Summer Berry Cake Recipe for Hot Days

Introduction

When it is hot, there is nothing better than a light fruity dessert and a summer berry cake is the answer. Fluffy and fruity, it is refreshing, bright and not too heavy for hot days when you want something sweet but not too much. The beauty of a berry cake is in its simplicity, made with seasonal berries like strawberries, blueberries and raspberries it lets the summer shine through.

You can also customize this cake to your berry of choice making it a versatile treat for any occasion. A sprinkle of vanilla or lemon zest adds a hint of flavor, the berries do the rest by infusing the cake with juice and color. Serve it plain, with a whipped cream or powdered sugar on top.

How To Make Summer Berry Cake

A summer berry cake is the perfect dessert to capture the summer flavors. This light and fluffy cake is filled with a burst of summer berries, perfect for hot days when you want a dessert that is both refreshing and filling.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups (150g) maida (all-purpose flour)
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (120ml) dahi (yogurt)
• ¼ cup (60ml) milk
• ½ cup (100g) sugar
• ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) – chopped if large
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 6-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the maida, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set it aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the dahi, milk, sugar and oil until smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and lemon zest, and mix well.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix gently and do not overmix. The batter should be smooth and lump-free.
5. Fold in half of the mixed berries gently into the batter. The rest will be added on top later.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Top with the remaining berries, and press them slightly into the batter.
7. Put the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if you want.
9. Slice and enjoy your summer berry cake with a side of whipped cream or just as it is!

Tips To Make The Perfect Summer Berry Cake

1. Pick The Right Berries

Choose fresh, ripe strawberries, blueberries, raspberries or blackberries, each will add its sweetness and color to your cake. For extra flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart berries to balance and prevent the cake from being too sweet.

2. Balance The Sugar

Berries can be naturally sweet, so taste them before adding sugar to the batter. If the berries are super sweet, reduce the sugar in the recipe a bit so you do not overpower the flavors. You can also use honey or maple syrup as a sweetener.

3. Add Lemon Zest For Brightness

Lemon zest brings out the flavors of the berries and adds a nice citrus undertone. Grate a little lemon zest directly into the batter. It should not overpower the berries but enhances their natural flavor and makes the cake feel lighter.

4. Do Not Overmix

Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix gently. Overmixing can make the cake dense and it will not pair well with the fresh berries.

5. Fold In Berries

Fold in half the berries into the batter gently so you do not break them. Crushed berries release extra moisture which can affect the texture of the cake. The other half can go on top for a pretty presentation so every bite has visible whole berries.

6. Adjust Baking Time Based on Pan Size

The size of the pan can affect the baking time, if you are using a larger pan the cake may bake faster so check a few minutes earlier. A smaller, deeper pan may take longer so use a toothpick to test the center before removing from the oven.

7. Cool And Dust With Powdered Sugar

Let the cake cool completely before cutting so it does not crumble. Once cooled a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweetness and a bakery finish. For extra bonus garnish with a few fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to serve.

A summer berry cake is the ultimate combination of fresh and sweet. With berries, lemon zest and a light crumb, this cake is refreshing and satisfying. Follow these tips and you will have a simple and delicious dessert for any occasion.