The fraisier cake, a delightful French dessert, is known for its elegant appearance and luscious flavors. Combining fresh strawberries, creamy mousse, and light sponge, this cake is perfect for any celebration or simply to indulge yourself. In this article, we will guide you through an easy recipe for a fraisier cake, breaking it down into manageable steps. Below is a comprehensive list of the ingredients and equipment you’ll need, followed by detailed explanations to help you master this stunning dessert.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh strawberries | 500g |
| All-purpose flour | 200g |
| Granulated sugar | 150g |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Butter | 100g |
| Milk | 250ml |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Gelatin sheets | 4 sheets |
| Heavy cream | 300ml |
| Powdered sugar | 50g |
Fresh Strawberries
Fresh strawberries are the star of the fraisier cake. They provide a burst of flavor and a beautiful color contrast to the creamy layers. When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are ripe, firm, and free from blemishes. Using organic strawberries can enhance the taste and quality of your cake.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour is the main ingredient in the sponge cake. It gives the cake structure while remaining light and airy. Make sure to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. This ensures that your sponge will rise beautifully.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated sugar not only sweetens the cake but also helps in achieving the perfect texture for your sponge. It is essential to beat the sugar with the eggs until they reach a pale and fluffy consistency, which is crucial for a successful sponge cake.
Eggs
Eggs are vital in creating a rich and moist sponge. They provide moisture, structure, and stability to the cake. Using room temperature eggs can help them incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.
Butter
Butter adds flavor and richness to the fraisier cake. It should be melted and cooled before mixing into the batter to ensure even distribution. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the sweetness of your dessert better.
Milk
Milk adds moisture and helps in creating a tender sponge. Whole milk is preferred for its richness, but you can substitute it with a lower-fat version if desired. Ensure the milk is at room temperature for better mixing.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake. Using pure vanilla extract will provide a more robust and natural flavor compared to imitation vanilla. It is a small but significant ingredient that elevates the cake’s taste.
Gelatin Sheets
Gelatin sheets are used to stabilize the cream filling, ensuring it holds its shape when sliced. It is important to soak the gelatin in cold water before using it. This process allows it to bloom and dissolve easily in the warm milk mixture.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is whipped to create a light and airy mousse that layers beautifully with the strawberries. For the best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream, as cold equipment helps achieve stiff peaks more quickly.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar is used to sweeten the whipped cream and stabilize it. It dissolves quickly, making it ideal for frosting and fillings. Be careful not to add too much, as it can overpower the delicate flavors of the fraisier cake.
FAQ
What is a fraisier cake?
A fraisier cake is a classic French dessert made with layers of sponge cake, strawberries, and cream. It is often adorned with a beautiful glaze and is known for its elegant presentation.
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
While fresh strawberries are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
How can I store a fraisier cake?
Fraisier cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.
Is it difficult to make a fraisier cake?
While the fraisier cake may seem complicated, following the steps outlined in this recipe can make it manageable for home bakers. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to create a stunning dessert.
For more information on baking techniques and dessert recipes, you can refer to [USDA Food Safety](https://www.fsis.usda.gov/) and [FDA Baking Guidelines](https://www.fda.gov/).
