Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined. Gently fold in 1/2 cup of fresh raspberries.
Baking
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Raspberry Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the berries break down and the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and cool.
Making the Frosting
- Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and then mix in the vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency with the heavy cream.
Assembly
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate, spread frosting over the top, and drizzle with raspberry sauce. Add the second layer and frost the entire cake.
- Garnish with sliced almonds, fresh raspberries, and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
Consider flavor variations with different extracts, and use frozen raspberries if fresh ones aren't available. For better moisture, avoid over-mixing and consider using yogurt instead of some butter in the frosting.
