These bite-sized vanilla cakes feature a hidden center of fresh raspberry or blackberry puree. A generous swirl of fruit-flavored buttercream tops each tender crumb for a bright, sweet finish. They make a wonderful treat for afternoon tea, children's parties, or a casual weekend baking project. The fresh berries provide a tart contrast to the rich, fluffy frosting.
Servings
4
Course
Dessert
Ingredients
175g unsalted butter
175g caster sugar
3 eggs, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
200g plain flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
3 tablespoons milk
200g unsalted butter
400g icing sugar, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk
300g raspberries
300g blackberries or blueberries
2 tablespoons caster sugar
2 x 12-hole mini fairy cake tins
24 mini fairy cake cases
2 x disposable piping bags
2 x medium open star nozzles
Instructions
1Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan or gas mark 4) and arrange the racks near the middle to allow room for rising. Line two 12-hole mini fairy cake tins with 24 paper cases.
2Beat the unsalted butter and caster sugar together in a large bowl or stand mixer until the mixture becomes very pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula and beat briefly to combine.
3Add the lightly beaten eggs and vanilla extract a little at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Sift the plain flour and baking powder directly into the bowl, pour in the milk, and stir until the batter is completely smooth.
4Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared paper cases. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cakes are puffed, pale golden, and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
5Let the baked cakes rest in their tins for 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer them to a wire cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before adding any filling or frosting.