Mini Strawberry Cream Flower Cakes
Mini Strawberry Cream Flower Cakes are an enchanting dessert that combines the delicate flavors of strawberry and vanilla with a visually stunning presentation. These dainty cakes feature fluffy pink sponge layers stacked high with rich vanilla cream, and are perfectly decorated with an array of pastel toppings. They are ideal for tea parties, birthdays, or as a delightful homemade gift for your loved ones. In this post, we will guide you through the recipe with detailed instructions, ingredient lists, and pro tips to help you master this charming treat.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe for Mini Strawberry Cream Flower Cakes is not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. The combination of soft sponge, rich cream filling, and fresh strawberries create a delightful harmony of flavors. Additionally, the cakes can easily be customized with different toppings, allowing you to personalize each one for special occasions. Perfectly portioned as mini cakes, they make serving and sharing easy—each bite is a testament to your baking skills. Get ready to impress your guests and family with these stunning mini cakes!
Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here are the components you will need:
For the Pink Sponge:
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (60g) cake flour
- 1 tbsp milk
- Pink food coloring
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 tbsp cream cheese for a thicker texture
Toppings:
- Mini wafer sticks
- White chocolate flower drops or piped cream
- Pink jelly hearts or domes (can use gelatin or pink juice)
- Fresh raspberries or strawberries
- Edible flowers, herbs (rosemary, mint) for decoration
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). This ensures that your sponge will bake evenly.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes thick and pale, usually taking about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which gives the sponge its light texture.
Step 3: Next, add in the pink food coloring, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix gently until combined to maintain the airy texture of the batter.
Step 4: Sift the cake flour over the egg mixture and carefully fold it in with a spatula. This is important to avoid deflating the batter you have just created.
Step 5: Spread the batter thinly onto a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the sponge springs back when touched.
Step 6: Once baked, allow the sponge to cool for a few minutes before cutting it into round shapes using a cookie cutter. This will form your mini cakes.
Step 7: While the sponges cool, prepare the cream filling. In a clean mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until you reach stiff peaks. If you are using cream cheese for a thicker texture, you can add it at this stage and mix until smooth.
Step 8: Fill a piping bag with the whipped cream mixture, ready for assembly.
Step 9: To assemble, place one sponge circle on a plate or serving tray. Pipe dots of cream onto the sponge and stack another sponge on top. Repeat this process until you have built a mini cake with three layers of sponge and cream.
Step 10: Now comes the fun part—decorating your mini cakes. Top them with jelly, wafer sticks, fresh berries, and edible flowers for that beautiful presentation. Let your creativity shine!
Step 11: Chill the completed cakes in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps to set the cream and enhances the flavors.
Pro Tips for Making Mini Strawberry Cream Flower Cakes
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better volume when beaten.
- Be gentle when folding in the flour to keep the batter airy for light sponges.
- Experiment with various colored food gels to match your occasion.
- Using a serrated knife can help you create even layers if you’re not using cookie cutters.
- Chill your bowls and beaters before whipping cream for optimal results.
FAQs
Can I make these cakes in advance?
Yes! The sponge and cream can be prepared a day ahead. Assemble the cakes just before serving to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whipped topping or coconut cream as an alternative to heavy whipping cream.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches for a different flavor profile.
How should I store leftover mini cakes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these mini cakes gluten-free.
Conclusion
Mini Strawberry Cream Flower Cakes are a delightful treat that combines elegance and flavor in every bite. With their fluffy pink sponge layers and creamy filling topped with charming decorations, these cakes are sure to impress your guests. Whether for a celebration or just because, these mini cakes are a perfect addition to any dessert table. Happy baking!