Vanilla Cake with Fresh Berries

An elevated dessert made for those who appreciate the beauty of simple ingredients crafted with precision. This vanilla cake is soft, moist, and perfectly paired with a fresh berry medley and a touch of cream—ideal for a refined dinner or a special celebration at home.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cake

8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups whole milk

For the Berries

1/2 cup each: strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

To Garnish

Confectioners’ sugar
Vanilla ice cream (optional but recommended)

Cooking time:

1 hour

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.

2. Make the Cake

In a large bowl, beat the butter and vegetable oil using a hand mixer on medium speed until fully combined.
Add the sugar and continue mixing until the mixture turns pale and thick.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla and almond extracts. Mix on medium-high speed until light and airy.
Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix gently until just combined.
Add the milk and mix just until incorporated. Do not overmix—some lumps are okay.

3. Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Bake for 28–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack or serving plate to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Berries

Remove stems and quarter the strawberries.
In a bowl, toss all berries with the sugar. Lightly mash some for extra texture. Set aside.

5. Assemble and Garnish

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Top with a generous spoonful of berries.
Add the second layer and repeat.
Dust with confectioners' sugar and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.