Introduction
Delight in a vibrant and refreshing dessert with this Dragon Fruit Layer Cake, showcasing the exotic flavors and vibrant colors of dragon fruit. Perfect for any special occasion, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
– 240g all-purpose flour
– 7.5g baking powder
– 2.5g salt
– 200g granulated sugar
– 227g butter (softened)
– 4 large eggs
– 5ml vanilla extract
– 240ml dragon fruit puree (fresh or frozen)
– Pink food coloring (optional)
For the Filling:
– 227g cream cheese (softened)
– 60g powdered sugar
– 120ml heavy cream
– 5ml vanilla extract
For the Topping:
– Fresh dragon fruit slices (for garnish)
– Optional: edible flowers for decoration
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
8 servings
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and dragon fruit puree. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. If you’d like a more vibrant color, add a few drops of pink food coloring.
3. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
5. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of cream cheese filling over one of the cake layers. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining filling.
6. Decorate the top with fresh dragon fruit slices and edible flowers if desired. Slice, serve, and enjoy this refreshing, fruity dessert!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare the Cake Layers:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. Next, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and dragon fruit puree until smooth. Gradually add in the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. If desired, add a few drops of pink food coloring to enhance the cake’s vibrancy.
3. Bake the Cake:
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with the vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring everything is well combined without deflating the whipped cream.
5. Assemble the Cake:
After the cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese filling over the top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and use the remaining filling to frost the entire cake.
6. Garnish & Serve:
Decorate the top with fresh dragon fruit slices and, if desired, add edible flowers for a touch of elegance. Once garnished, slice the cake and enjoy this delightful explosion of flavors and colors!
Notes
Ingredient Freshness:
Using fresh dragon fruit will enhance the flavor and color of the cake, but frozen puree can be utilized in a pinch. Make sure to thaw it completely before using.
Optimal Cooling:
Ensure that the cakes have cooled completely before assembling to prevent the filling from melting or sliding off.
Customizable Decoration:
Feel free to experiment with different toppings such as shredded coconut, mint leaves, or other edible flowers to match your theme or preference.
Storage Guidelines:
This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled after being refrigerated for a bit as this enhances its flavors.
Serving Size:
This recipe yields about 8 servings, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Adjust the ingredients accordingly if you wish to make a larger cake.
Flavor Enhancement:
Pair the cake with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the overall experience and complement the dragon fruit flavor.
Cook Techniques
Prepping Cake Pans
Greasing and lining the cake pans helps to prevent the cake from sticking, ensuring a smooth release after baking.
Whipping Butter and Sugar
When butter and sugar are beaten together until light and fluffy, it incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
Incorporating Egg
Adding eggs one at a time helps to evenly incorporate them into the batter, ensuring a uniform texture and stability in the cake.
Folding Technique
Gently folding whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture preserves the airiness of the whipped cream, resulting in a light and fluffy filling.
Baking at the Right Temperature
Baking the cake at 350°F (175°C) allows for even cooking, preventing the edges from overbaking while ensuring the center sets properly.
Cooling the Cake
Allowing the cake to cool in the pans before transferring to a wire rack helps to firm up the cake, making it easier to handle when assembling.
Garnishing with Fresh Fruit
Using fresh dragon fruit slices not only enhances the visual appeal of the cake but also adds a fresh, fruity flavor complementing the dessert.
FAQ
Can I use frozen dragon fruit puree?
Yes, frozen dragon fruit puree can be used in this recipe. Just ensure it is thawed before use.
How can I make the cake more vibrant?
You can add a few drops of pink food coloring to the batter for a more vibrant color if desired.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone cheese for a different flavor and texture, although it may be less tangy.
How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to 3 days.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and assemble just before serving for best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Indulging in this Dragon Fruit Layer Cake will elevate any occasion with its stunning presentation and invigorating flavor. The natural sweetness and unique appearance of dragon fruit make this cake not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply pampering yourself, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Combine the tropical flavors of passion fruit with a light and airy mousse for an exquisite dessert that contrasts nicely with the rich layers of cream.
Coconut and Lime Layer Cake
Infuse your cake with coconut milk and zest of lime for a refreshing tropical spin, creating a perfect balance with the dragon fruit layers.
Mango Cream Cheese Cake
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