Strawberry Mascarpone Pisces Cake
Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes
I am absolutely in love with making this Strawberry Mascarpone Pisces Cake because it's a delightful treat that can brighten up any occasion. The combination of rich mascarpone cheese and fresh strawberries creates a flavor that is both creamy and refreshing. I've found that the secret to achieving the perfect balance lies in using sweet, ripe strawberries and a splash of vanilla to enhance the flavors. It’s ideal for gatherings, and the light, fluffy texture keeps everyone coming back for more!
When I first tried making a Strawberry Mascarpone Pisces Cake, I was amazed at how the flavors danced together. The mascarpone gives such a luxurious creaminess, and the strawberries add a fresh burst of sweetness. One important tip I learned during my baking journey is to always taste the strawberries beforehand to ensure they are sweet enough; this makes a world of difference in the final cake.
Baking this cake has become a ritual for special occasions. With each layer carefully crafted and topped with a light whipped cream frosting, I’m reminded of why I love baking so much. Sharing this cake with friends and family creates memories that last, and every bite is a celebration of love and flavor!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Decadent mascarpone combined with juicy strawberries
- Fluffy layers that practically melt in your mouth
- A perfect centerpiece for any celebration or gathering
Choosing the Right Strawberries
The success of your Strawberry Mascarpone Pisces Cake heavily relies on the quality of strawberries you select. Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries that are vibrant red with a sweet fragrance. Avoid those that look dull or have green spots, as they may not provide the sweetness and flavor that will complement the mascarpone filling. If you're making this cake out of season, consider using frozen strawberries that have been properly thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in your filling.
When preparing your strawberries, slice them evenly to ensure they layer harmoniously in the cake. This not only helps with presentation but also allows for consistent flavor distribution. I recommend reserving a few whole strawberries for garnish, which can elevate the cake's visual appeal and entice your guests even more.
Perfecting the Mascarpone Filling
Achieving the ideal consistency for your mascarpone filling requires careful attention when whisking the ingredients. Start with room temperature mascarpone cheese to ensure it incorporates smoothly without lumps. When you combine it with heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla, whip the mixture just until soft peaks form. Over-whipping can lead to a grainy texture, so watch it closely and stop as soon as you see those peaks appear.
To enhance the flavor complexity of your filling, you can customize it with a splash of citrus zest—like lemon or orange—or experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut. These subtle adjustments can add a delightful twist that complements the strawberries beautifully without overshadowing their natural sweetness.
Assembly and Serving Tips
When layering your cake, ensure that the first layer is placed on a sturdy surface, such as a cake board, to make handling easier. Use an offset spatula to apply the mascarpone filling evenly, creating a nice, thick layer that binds the strawberries in place. For an added touch of elegance, consider lightly sweetening the sliced strawberries with sugar and letting them macerate for about 10 minutes; this amplifies their juiciness and flavor.
After frosting the cake, be sure to chill it for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while also firming up the filling for a clean slice. If you're looking to impress, serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top for a sophisticated flavor pairing that enhances both the strawberries and the creaminess of the mascarpone.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for an unforgettable cake.
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
These ingredients work together to form a delicious cake!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Mascarpone Pisces Cake.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until fully combined.
Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Prepare the Filling
While the cakes cool, whisk together mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Layer the Cake
Once the cakes have cooled, layer them on a serving platter, spreading a generous amount of mascarpone filling and sliced strawberries between each layer.
Top with Frosting
Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining mascarpone filling, and garnish with additional strawberries.
Now you've created a beautiful and delicious cake!
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Chill the mascarpone filling before using it for a firmer texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
This Strawberry Mascarpone Pisces Cake can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy hosts. Once assembled, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be mindful that the strawberries might start to release moisture, so it's best to add fresh strawberries on top just before serving if making multiple days in advance.
If you've got leftover pieces, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap to preserve their freshness. You can also freeze the unassembled cake layers for up to three months. Just ensure they’re completely cool before wrapping them in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you're ready to assemble.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
One common pitfall when baking this cake is the dryness of the cake layers. To avoid this, always measure your flour correctly—spoon it into the measuring cup rather than scooping directly, which can compact the flour and lead to using too much. Also, make notes of your oven's actual cooking time, as it varies; the toothpick test is your best friend!
Another issue might be the filling becoming too runny, particularly if you overwhip the cream or don't use cold ingredients. If your filling seems too soft to spread, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes until it thickens. Conversely, if it’s too thick, gently folding in a few extra tablespoons of heavy cream can help achieve the right texture.
Flavor Variations
Take this recipe to the next level by experimenting with different fruits alongside or instead of strawberries. Raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches can create a delightful twist on the original flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust sweetness based on the acidity of the fruit chosen. For instance, tart berries may need extra sugar in comparison to sweet strawberries.
For a more indulgent version, fold a bit of melted chocolate into the mascarpone filling or sprinkle in some finely chopped nuts between the layers. This will provide extra layers of flavor that will surprise your guests and keep them captivated with each bite.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead. Just store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.
→ What's the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I substitute the mascarpone cheese?
You can use cream cheese as a substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different.
→ Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled cake layers for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge before assembling.
Strawberry Mascarpone Pisces Cake
I am absolutely in love with making this Strawberry Mascarpone Pisces Cake because it's a delightful treat that can brighten up any occasion. The combination of rich mascarpone cheese and fresh strawberries creates a flavor that is both creamy and refreshing. I've found that the secret to achieving the perfect balance lies in using sweet, ripe strawberries and a splash of vanilla to enhance the flavors. It’s ideal for gatherings, and the light, fluffy texture keeps everyone coming back for more!
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Fresh Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until fully combined.
Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While the cakes cool, whisk together mascarpone cheese, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Once the cakes have cooled, layer them on a serving platter, spreading a generous amount of mascarpone filling and sliced strawberries between each layer.
Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining mascarpone filling, and garnish with additional strawberries.
Extra Tips
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Chill the mascarpone filling before using it for a firmer texture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g