Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon (12g) baking powder
- ½ teaspoon (2g) salt
- 1 cup mixed fresh fruits (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and mandarin oranges)
- 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar (for macerating fruits)
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons (15g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour the cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (approx. 3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with milk, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Toss mixed fruits with sugar and let sit for at least 10 minutes to release their juices.
- In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate, top with whipped cream (if using) and half the fruit mixture. Repeat with the second layer.