Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m excited to share my easy fraisier cake recipe. This strawberry fraisier cake is a classic French dessert. It combines fresh strawberries, creamy vanilla pastry cream, and light sponge cake layers. It’s both stunning to look at and full of flavor, perfect for any event.
This cake typically has layers of genoise sponge, mousseline cream, and strawberries. It’s often topped with marzipan or a fresh fruit glaze. My version is simpler, using a lighter sponge and whipped cream for decoration. It’s a great way to learn baking basics and the key ingredients of a classic French fraisier cake.
As we explore the recipe, you’ll see how to make a cake that’s both tasty and impressive. Each step, from the batter to the filling, makes a magical dessert. And for a refreshing drink, try this homemade strawberry lemonade!
What is a Fraisier Cake?
The classic French fraisier cake is a mix of flavors and textures. It has layers of genoise sponge, rich mousseline cream, and fresh strawberries. These ingredients make it a true masterpiece. The name “fraisier” means “strawberry” in English, showing the cake’s main ingredient.
The Origins of the Fraisier Cake
This dessert comes from French patisserie culture. It has evolved over decades to become a summer favorite. With more strawberry types available in France, fraisier cake recipes have grown in popularity.
The cake’s striking layers and vibrant colors are enhanced by fresh strawberries. This makes it a sought-after dessert in warmer months.
Key Ingredients of a Classic Fraisier Cake
Creating a classic French fraisier cake requires several key ingredients:
- Genoise Sponge: A light and airy sponge made from eggs, sugar, plain flour, and cornstarch.
- Mousseline Cream: A luxurious filling made from pastry cream mixed with softened unsalted butter.
- Fresh Strawberries: Typically, 1.1 lbs (500g) are used, both for flavor and to enhance visual appeal during fraisier cake assembly.
- Soaking Syrup: A sweet mixture of caster sugar and water that moistens the sponge layers.
Assembling this cake requires careful mixing of these elements. The cake can be round or rectangular, each with its own charm. The number of strawberries used adds to the cake’s appeal.
If you’re making this cake, consider a refreshing drink like Strawberry Basil Lemonade or a quick strawberry lemonade recipe for a delightful pairing.
My Easy Fraisier Cake Recipe
Making a stunning fraisier cake is easier than you think. I’ll show you how to make a delicious fraisier génoise sponge and a perfect fraisier crème mousseline. Then, we’ll put it all together step by step. This recipe is easy to follow and lets you add your own twist.
Preparing the Fraisier génoise sponge
First, we make the fraisier génoise sponge. This cake is light and fluffy, just right for a classic fraisier. We start by beating eggs and sugar together to add air. This step is key for the sponge’s airy texture.
Then, we fold in flour and melted unsalted butter gently. The cake bakes in an 8-inch pan for about 25 minutes. It turns out delicate and absorbs flavors well.
Making the Fraisier crème mousseline
The fraisier crème mousseline is the cake’s creamy filling. It’s made with vanilla pastry cream and butter for a rich yet light mix. We use two parts pastry cream to one part butter for the perfect mix.
To make the pastry cream, we cook milk, sugar, cornstarch, and an egg yolk over low heat. We stir constantly to avoid lumps. Once it’s smooth and thick, we cool it and mix in the butter for a creamy texture.
Assembling the Cake
To assemble the cake, we start by cutting the génoise sponge into layers. We line the sides of a cake ring with fresh strawberries, creating a beautiful look. We fill the gaps with whipped cream and pastry cream for layers of flavor and texture.
A prepared acetate strip helps us remove the cake ring after chilling. Chilling the cake in the fridge for 3–4 hours or overnight enhances the flavors and stability.
Decoration Tips
Decorating is simple yet elegant. We top the cake with a light layer of whipped cream and fresh strawberries. For a creative touch, we might sprinkle gold dust or add gold foil pieces. These tips make the cake look great while letting you add your own flair.
For an extra treat, try pairing your dessert with a Holiday Berry Smoothie. It’s a sweet way to enjoy summer flavors all year.
Conclusion
The fraisier cake is a delightful centerpiece that looks great and tastes even better. My easy fraisier cake recipe makes it simple to create a stunning dessert. You’ll impress everyone with your French patisserie skills.
Each slice of this cake is a treat that starts conversations. It’s perfect for tea parties or celebrating big moments. It adds to the festive feel and makes the meal special. For more French dessert ideas, check out this link. You can also try a pomegranate spritzer to make your celebration even better.
This cake is special because it combines art and tradition. Its rich flavors and elegant design make it a favorite in your kitchen.
FAQ
What is a fraisier cake?
A fraisier cake is a French dessert. It has layers of génoise sponge, rich mousseline cream, and fresh strawberries. It’s often topped with marzipan or a fruit glaze.
Can I use a different kind of fruit for the fraisier cake?
Yes, you can try other fruits like raspberries or peaches. Just make sure they go well with the creamy filling.
Is there a no-bake version of the fraisier cake?
Yes, there’s a no-bake version. It uses whipped cream instead of cooking a crème mousseline. This saves time and is just as tasty!
How do I make the génoise sponge light and fluffy?
To make it fluffy, melt butter with sugar. Then, gently fold in whipped egg whites. This keeps it airy and perfect for the fraisier.
What is crème mousseline and how is it made?
Crème mousseline is a rich filling. It’s made by mixing pastry cream with whipped cream. I use cornstarch to thicken it and cook it slowly.
How do I assemble the fraisier cake properly?
Begin by cutting the génoise sponge into layers. Place halved strawberries in a cake ring. Then, layer crème mousseline and sponge. Fill gaps with whipped cream for extra texture.
What are some decoration tips for the fraisier cake?
Keep it simple! Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. This enhances both looks and taste. You can also add chocolate shavings or mint leaves.
How long can I keep the fraisier cake in the fridge?
You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.
Can I customize the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free fraisier, use gluten-free flour for the génoise sponge. You can also use dairy-free alternatives in the crème mousseline.
