There’s something magical about a cake that perfectly balances sweetness with the natural tartness of fresh berries. The Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake has earned its reputation as a show-stopping dessert, celebrated for its light sponge layers, luscious whipped cream, and vibrant mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. It’s a slice of pure indulgence that feels both elegant and comforting.
This iconic cake originated from Sweet Lady Jane Bakery in Los Angeles, where it quickly became a favorite for special occasions. We love how it highlights the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients, making every bite a celebration of flavor and texture. Whether you’re recreating it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, this recipe lets us bring a little bakery magic into our own kitchens.
Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake Recipe
Bring the elegance of the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake into your kitchen by following our step-by-step recipe! This unmistakable creation captures the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors. We’ll guide you through the essential ingredients and the detailed process to achieve this bakery masterpiece.
Ingredients
For the Sponge Cake:
- 1 ½ cups of cake flour (sifted)
- 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs (separated)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ⅓ cup milk (room temperature)
For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
- 2 cups heavy cream (chilled)
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Berry Filling:
- 1 cup strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- ½ cup raspberries (fresh)
- ½ cup blueberries (fresh)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Steps to Make the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans and line their bottoms with parchment paper.
- Combine the cake flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk to blend evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with ½ cup of sugar until pale and thickened. Stir in the vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and milk. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Slowly add the remaining ½ cup of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter, ensuring no streaks remain.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans before removing them.
Step 2: Make the Berry Filling
- Mix the strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Toss well to combine. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top, followed by a portion of the berry mixture.
- Add the second cake layer and repeat the process with more whipped cream and berries. Place the final cake layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream, ensuring a smooth and even finish. Decorate the cake with additional fresh berries for a beautiful finish.
- Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
| Component | Key Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sponge Cake | Egg Whites + Yolks | Whipped for airy texture |
| Berry Filling | Fresh Strawberries, Raspberries | Choose ripe, sweet berries |
| Whipped Cream Frosting | Chilled Heavy Cream | Cold cream ensures stiff peaks |
Prepare this iconic Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration. Its delicate sponge, luscious berries, and light whipped cream frosting make it a true showstopper.
Ingredients
For The Cake
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour (sifted)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
For The Berry Filling
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For The Whipped Cream Frosting
- 3 cups heavy whipping cream (chilled)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh whole berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh mint sprigs for a pop of color
Tools And Equipment
To recreate the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Each piece helps ensure precision, ease, and efficiency throughout the baking and assembly process. Here’s what we need:
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowls: At least 3 for combining wet and dry ingredients, whipped cream preparation, and berry filling. Opt for stainless steel or glass bowls to maintain cool temperatures for the cream.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: A must-have for whipping cream to stiff peaks and achieving smooth batter consistency. Include the whisk and paddle attachments.
- Sifter: For aerating and uniformly combining the cake flour with other dry ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of sponge texture, berry filling, and frosting.
- Kitchen Scale: Optional but preferred for precise weighing of ingredients, especially flour and sugar.
- Spatula: A flexible silicone or rubber spatula helps to fold ingredients without deflating the batter. It’s also great for spreading the frosting.
- 8-inch Round Cake Pans: We’ll need 3 pans to bake even sponge layers. Ensure they have non-stick coating or line them with parchment paper.
- Cooling Racks: To cool the cake layers evenly after baking without trapping moisture.
- Toothpicks/Skewer: For testing the doneness of the cake layers by checking if they come out clean.
- Offset Spatula: To evenly frost and smooth the whipped cream for that professional finish.
- Cake Turntable (optional): Enhances ease and precision while decorating the cake.
For Berry Prep
- Paring Knife: Ideal for hulling and slicing fresh strawberries.
- Small Colander: Rinse the berries thoroughly and drain excess water.
- Lemon Zester or Grater: To extract vibrant flavor from lemon used in the berry filling.
For Cake Assembly
- Pastry Brush: Optional yet handy for brushing layers with berry juice if added moisture is desired.
- Piping Bag and Tips: For decorative whipped cream piping, adding an elegant touch to the finished cake.
Tools and Their Purpose
Here’s a quick summary table of key tools and their primary use:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Electric Mixer | Whipping cream, mixing batter |
| 8-inch Cake Pans (3) | Baking even sponge layers |
| Sifter | Aerating and combining dry ingredients |
| Offset Spatula | Smoothing frosting and spreading layers |
| Cake Turntable | Rotating the cake for precise decoration |
| Paring Knife | Slicing strawberries for berry filling |
| Cooling Racks | Preventing soggy cake bottoms |
| Piping Bag | Piping whipped cream decorations |
Directions
Let’s recreate the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake step-by-step. Follow these detailed directions to achieve the perfect balance of fluffy sponge, luscious berry filling, and creamy whipped frosting.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease three 8-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
- Sift cake flour: Measure 2 ½ cups of sifted cake flour and sift it again with baking powder and salt to ensure a light, airy texture.
- Prepare your tools: Set up your mixing bowls, an electric mixer, spatula, and cooling racks. Chill the mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the refrigerator for the whipped cream.
Make The Cake Layers
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until fluffy and pale. Use medium-high speed for 3-5 minutes.
- Add 4 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is completely incorporated before adding the next. Mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
- On low speed, alternate adding the dry ingredients (sifted flour mixture) with 1 1/4 cups of whole milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Do not overmix.
- Evenly divide the batter into the prepared pans. Use a kitchen scale for precision. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate pans halfway for even baking.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer to cooling racks to cool completely.
Prepare The Berry Filling
- Wash and dry the fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries (1 cup each). Hull and slice the strawberries.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the berries with ⅓ cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, gently stirring until the berries soften and release their juices. Avoid overcooking—they should hold their shape.
- Remove from heat. Transfer to a bowl and let it cool completely in the refrigerator.
Whip The Whipped Cream Frosting
- In a chilled mixing bowl, add 2 1/2 cups of heavy whipping cream and whip on medium speed until thickened.
- Gradually add ½ cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, increasing the speed to high. Whip until stiff peaks form.
- Keep the whipped cream in the refrigerator until ready to use.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve the rich, airy layers, the vibrant berry medley, and the velvety frosting that make this cake truly special.
Assemble The Triple Berry Cake
Now that all the components for the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake are prepared, it’s time to bring everything together. Follow these steps to assemble the cake with precision for a beautiful and delicious result.
Level The Cake Layers
- Place each cooled cake layer on a flat surface or a cake turntable.
- Use a serrated knife or a cake leveler to trim the dome tops of the cakes, creating even, flat surfaces. This ensures the layers stack neatly without tilting.
- Brush away any crumbs using a pastry brush to keep the cake smooth for frosting.
Pro Tip: Chilling the cake layers for 30 minutes before leveling makes them easier to handle.
Add The Berry Filling
- Place the first cake layer on a cake board or serving platter. Secure it with a small dollop of whipped cream underneath to prevent sliding.
- Using a piping bag or a spatula, spread a thin layer of whipped cream evenly over the layer.
- Spoon a generous amount of the berry filling onto the whipped cream layer, ensuring you stay about ½ inch from the edge to avoid spillage.
- Repeat this process with the second layer, ensuring each layer is level and the filling is evenly distributed.
Note: Save a portion of the berry filling for decorating later, if desired.
Frost The Cake
- Place the final cake layer on top with the flattest side facing up.
- Apply a crumb coat by spreading a thin layer of whipped cream all around the cake to seal in crumbs. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set the base coat.
- Once the crumb coat is firm, generously frost the cake with the remaining whipped cream, using an offset spatula for smooth edges.
- Run the spatula around the sides and top of the cake, aiming for a seamless and fluffy finish.
Quick Tip: For a professional touch, keep a bowl of warm water nearby to clean the spatula while smoothing.
Add Final Garnishes
- Decorate the top of the cake with fresh whole berries. Arrange strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries in a pattern or scatter them across for a more rustic look.
- Dust with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar for a delicate finish.
- Optionally, add a few fresh mint sprigs or pipe decorative whipped cream accents around the base or edges.
Assembly Overview Table
| Step | Tools Needed | Key Ingredients | Time (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level Cake Layers | Serrated knife, pastry brush | Sponge cake layers | 10 |
| Add Berry Filling | Piping bag, spoon | Berry filling, whipped cream | 10 |
| Frost The Cake | Offset spatula | Whipped cream | 15 |
| Add Final Garnishes | Powdered sugar sifter, piping bag | Fresh berries, powdered sugar | 5 |
With these detailed steps, you can assemble your Triple Berry Cake into a stunning centerpiece for any celebration. Carefully layering the light sponge, luscious berry medley, and velvety whipped cream frosting ensures a picture-perfect dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Making the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake ahead of time is a great way to reduce stress for your celebrations. Proper planning ensures the cake stays fresh and flavorful while saving time on the day of your event. Here’s a breakdown of what components can be prepared in advance and how to store them efficiently:
1. Sponge Cake Layers
- Bake the sponge layers up to 2 days in advance. Once baked, let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
- Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. For added protection, use a layer of aluminum foil over the plastic wrap.
- Store them at room temperature in a cool, dry place if you plan to assemble the cake within 24–48 hours. Alternatively, place the wrapped layers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Pro Tip: When ready to use frozen layers, transfer them to the refrigerator to defrost overnight. Level the layers once they are fully thawed.
2. Berry Filling
- The berry filling can be made up to 2 days ahead.
- After cooking the filling, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store it in the refrigerator. Before using, give the filling a gentle stir to loosen it up if it thickens.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking the berries during preparation. Leave some whole fruit chunks for added texture.
3. Whipped Cream Frosting
- For the best texture and consistency, prepare the whipped cream frosting no more than 24 hours in advance.
- Whip the frosting until it forms stiff peaks to ensure it holds up during assembly.
- Store the whipped cream in an airtight container or piping bag in the refrigerator.
Pro Tip: Whip the cream just before frosting the cake if you want the fluffiest and freshest result.
4. Assembly and Decoration
- While it is possible to assemble the cake and refrigerate it overnight, we recommend saving the final garnishing for the day of serving. This keeps the fresh berries and powdered sugar looking vibrant and prevents the decorations from wilting or dissolving.
Make-Ahead Storage Summary
Here’s a quick-reference table to summarize the make-ahead steps:
| Component | Make-Ahead Duration | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Sponge Cake Layers | Up to 3 months (frozen) | Wrap in plastic wrap + foil; keep at room temp or freeze |
| Berry Filling | Up to 2 days | Store in an airtight container; refrigerate |
| Whipped Cream Frosting | Up to 24 hours | Use an airtight container or piping bag; refrigerate |
| Assembled Cake | Up to one night | Cover and refrigerate; garnish before serving |
Pro Tip: Always serve the cake slightly chilled for the perfect texture and flavor balance.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the freshness and integrity of our Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake. Let’s ensure every slice tastes as delightful as the first by following these straightforward tips for storing the cake and its components.
For Assembled Cake:
- Refrigeration: After assembling the cake, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or place it in a cake carrier. Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Avoid Smell Absorption: To prevent the cake from absorbing other refrigerator odors, ensure it’s stored in an airtight container or wrapped effectively.
- Serving: Remove the cake from the refrigerator at least 20–30 minutes before serving to let it come to room temperature, enhancing the whipped cream’s texture and the flavors of the berries.
For Leftover Slices:
- Cover Individually: Wrap each slice tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Alternatively, use individual airtight containers to prevent drying out.
- Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Keep slices refrigerated for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Freezer: To extend storage, freeze the wrapped slices for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer bag or container to protect from freezer burn.
| Storage Item | Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Assembled Cake | Refrigerated | Up to 2 days |
| Leftover Slices | Refrigerated | Up to 2 days |
| Leftover Slices | Frozen | Up to 3 months |
For Components Stored Separately:
- Sponge Cake Layers:
- Room Temperature: Wrap cooled layers in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 1 day.
- Freezing: Wrap each layer securely in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Berry Filling: Store the prepared berry filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir gently before using.
- Whipped Cream Frosting: This is best made fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Re-whip briefly before frosting if needed.
| Component | Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Sponge Cake Layers | Room Temperature | 1 day |
| Sponge Cake Layers | Frozen | Up to 2 months |
| Berry Filling | Refrigerated | Up to 2 days |
| Whipped Cream Frosting | Refrigerated | Up to 1 day |
Key Tips for Best Results:
- Freeze with Care: Always cool the cake or layers completely before wrapping and freezing to avoid condensation and sogginess.
- Avoid Overexposure to Air: Air exposure can dry out the cake and affect the whipped cream’s texture.
- Fresh Garnishing: If freezing or refrigerating, hold off on garnishing until just before serving for the best presentation and flavor.
Conclusion
Creating the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake at home is a rewarding experience that brings elegance and flavor to any celebration. With its delicate layers, vibrant berries, and luscious whipped cream, this cake is sure to impress both visually and tastefully.
By following the recipe and tips we’ve shared, you can achieve professional-quality results while enjoying the process. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake offers the perfect balance of effort and reward.
Let’s celebrate life’s moments with a slice of this delightful masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake?
The Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake is a renowned dessert made with light sponge layers, whipped cream frosting, and a mix of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. It combines sweetness and tartness, making it a popular choice for celebrations.
Can I make the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake at home?
Yes, the article provides a detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions to recreate the cake, including essential ingredients and tools needed for baking, assembly, and decoration.
What ingredients are needed for the berry filling?
The berry filling requires fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice for a perfectly balanced flavor.
How should I store the Sweet Lady Jane Triple Berry Cake?
Refrigerate the assembled cake in a covered container for up to 2 days. Leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store components (sponge, filling, frosting) separately if preparing in advance.
Can I prepare components of the cake in advance?
Yes, the sponge cake layers can be baked 2 days ahead or frozen for up to 2 months, the berry filling refrigerated for 2 days, and the whipped cream frosting prepared up to 24 hours before use.
What tools are essential to make this cake?
Key tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, a sifter, cake pans, an offset spatula, and a paring knife. Optional tools like a piping bag enhance decoration.
How do I achieve a professional look when frosting the cake?
Chill the cake layers before frosting, and use a warm offset spatula to smooth the whipped cream for a clean, professional finish.
Can I customize the decoration of the cake?
Yes, you can garnish the cake with whole fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh mint sprigs for a personalized touch.
How long can leftover cake slices be stored?
Leftover slices can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Why is it important to use ripe berries and chilled cream?
Ripe berries provide the best flavor, while chilled cream ensures the whipped frosting remains light, fluffy, and easy to work with during assembly.