When it comes to elegant French desserts, the Fraisier Cake Recipe stands out as a quintessential example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a sophisticated treat. Named after the French word for strawberries, “fraise,” this cake is a celebration of fresh, ripe strawberries encased in light sponge cake and rich crème mousseline. The striking appearance of the sliced strawberries peeking through the cake layers makes this dessert as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply indulging in a love for classic French pâtisserie, this Fraisier Cake Recipe is sure to impress.
What is Fraisier Cake?
Fraisier cake is a traditional French dessert that consists of layers of genoise sponge cake, crème mousseline (a rich pastry cream lightened with butter), and fresh strawberries. Typically, the cake is topped with a layer of marzipan or a thin layer of jelly and is often finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and decorative elements such as almond slices or edible flowers. Not only does the Fraisier Cake Recipe boast exquisite flavor, but it also offers a stunning presentation—the halved strawberries placed along the edge of the cake create a visually striking effect.
During the spring and summer months, when strawberries are at their peak, this cake becomes a perfect dessert for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries. Moreover, it’s a favorite in French bakeries and patisseries. If you’re looking for another delightful cake recipe, consider the Jam Cake, which offers a fruity twist with layers of jam-filled goodness.
Essential Ingredients for Fraisier Cake
Creating a delicious Fraisier cake requires a careful selection of ingredients and attention to detail. To follow this Fraisier Cake Recipe, here’s what you’ll need:
The Basics
- Genoise Sponge Cake: This light and airy cake provides the base for the Fraisier. It’s made by whipping eggs and sugar until fluffy, then gently folding in flour and melted butter.
- Crème Mousseline: A rich and creamy filling made from pastry cream and butter. This luxurious cream is used to hold the strawberries in place and add a decadent flavor to the cake.
- Fresh Strawberries: The star of the show, fresh strawberries are halved and placed around the edges of the cake, with additional strawberries layered in the center.
- Marzipan: A layer of marzipan is often used to top the cake, adding a subtle almond flavor and a smooth finish.
- Sugar Syrup: Used to moisten the sponge cake layers and enhance the flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor to the crème mousseline.
- Butter: Adds richness and stability to the crème mousseline.
- Flour: Provides structure to the genoise sponge cake.
- Eggs: The base of both the genoise and the crème mousseline, adding structure and richness.
- Milk: Used in the crème mousseline to create a smooth and creamy texture.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the pastry cream for the crème mousseline.
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting the top of the cake and adding a final touch of sweetness.
To ensure you choose the best ingredients, check out this guide from King Arthur Baking.
If you’re interested in mastering other classic French recipes, don’t miss the Milk Brioche Recipe for a buttery and fluffy bread that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
How to Make Fraisier Cake
Making this Fraisier Cake Recipe involves several steps. Nevertheless, with careful attention to detail, you can create a dessert that’s both visually stunning and delicious. Here’s how you can make this classic French cake at home:
Ingredients
To make the Genoise Sponge Cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
To prepare the Crème Mousseline:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon kirsch (optional)
To Assembly:
- 2 pints fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 8 ounces marzipan, rolled into a thin circle
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Preparing the Genoise Sponge Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Make the Genoise Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar over a double boiler until the mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved. Afterward, remove the bowl from the heat and continue whisking until the mixture triples in volume and forms a thick ribbon when the whisk is lifted. Then, gently fold in the flour, followed by the melted butter and vanilla extract. Be careful not to deflate the batter, as this will result in a dense cake.
- Bake the Cake: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Creating the Crème Mousseline
- Make the Pastry Cream: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and half of the sugar over medium heat until just simmering. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, remaining sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Afterward, return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Add the Butter: Remove the pastry cream from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, beat the softened butter into the pastry cream until smooth and fluffy. This rich cream is the heart of your Fraisier Cake Recipe.
Making the Sugar Syrup
- Make the Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar, and heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved. Once the sugar is fully dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the kirsch if using. Set aside to cool completely. This syrup will keep your Fraisier Cake Recipe moist and flavorful.
Assembling the Fraisier Cake
- Slice the Cake: Once the genoise sponge cake has cooled, slice it horizontally into two even layers. Place the bottom layer on a serving plate or cake board and brush it generously with the sugar syrup.
- Arrange the Strawberries: Halve the strawberries and arrange them, cut side out, around the edge of the cake layer. These strawberries will create the iconic look of the Fraisier Cake Recipe. Fill the center of the cake with additional strawberries, cutting them to fit as needed.
- Add the Crème Mousseline: Spread a thick layer of crème mousseline over the strawberries, ensuring that the cream fills the gaps between the berries. Then, place the second cake layer on top and brush it with the remaining sugar syrup.
- Top with Marzipan: Roll out the marzipan into a thin circle large enough to cover the top of the cake. Carefully place the marzipan over the top layer of the cake, smoothing it out with your hands. Afterward, trim any excess marzipan from the edges.
- Finish and Decorate: Dust the top of the marzipan with powdered sugar, and decorate with almond slices, edible flowers, or additional strawberries if desired. This final touch adds elegance to your Fraisier Cake Recipe.
Serving the Fraisier Cake
- Chill the Cake: Before serving, refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 2 hours. By chilling the cake, the flavors meld together, and the crème mousseline firms up, making it easier to slice the cake cleanly.
- Serve: Slice the cake with a sharp knife and serve chilled. This Fraisier Cake Recipe pairs beautifully with a glass of champagne or a cup of coffee, making it the perfect dessert for any special occasion.
For a smaller, but equally delightful treat, you might want to try making a Bento Cake, which offers a more personalized and portable option.
Variations of Fraisier Cake
While the traditional Fraisier Cake Recipe is a classic, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste or the occasion. Here are some ideas:
1. Chocolate Fraisier Cake
For a decadent twist, add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and the crème mousseline. Additionally, you can drizzle chocolate over the top of the marzipan or use chocolate shavings as a garnish. This version of the Fraisier Cake Recipe is perfect for chocolate lovers.
2. Matcha Fraisier Cake
Incorporate the delicate flavor of matcha (green tea powder) into the genoise sponge or the crème mousseline. The earthy flavor of matcha pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries, adding a unique twist to the traditional Fraisier Cake Recipe.
3. Lemon Fraisier Cake
Add a refreshing citrus flavor by incorporating lemon zest into the genoise sponge or the crème mousseline. You can also brush the cake layers with a lemon syrup instead of the traditional sugar syrup. This variation of the Fraisier Cake Recipe is perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
4. Pistachio Fraisier Cake
Enhance the nuttiness of the marzipan by adding ground pistachios to the cake batter or crème mousseline. A sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top of the marzipan adds a delightful crunch and a vibrant green color, making this Fraisier Cake Recipe even more visually appealing.
5. Raspberry Fraisier Cake
Swap out the strawberries for fresh raspberries to create a tangy and visually striking version of the traditional Fraisier cake. The tartness of the raspberries pairs perfectly with the sweet crème mousseline, offering a refreshing take on the classic Fraisier Cake Recipe.
For more ideas on customizing your Fraisier Cake Recipe, check out this collection of cake recipes from Delish.
Tips for Making the Best Fraisier Cake
1. Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries
The quality of the strawberries is crucial to the success of your Fraisier Cake Recipe. Therefore, choose fresh, ripe strawberries that are fragrant and sweet. The strawberries should be firm but not overly ripe, as they need to hold their shape when sliced and arranged in the cake.
2. Whip the Eggs Properly
For a light and airy genoise sponge, it’s essential to whip the eggs and sugar until they reach the ribbon stage. This means the mixture should be thick enough to form a ribbon that sits on the surface of the batter for a few seconds before sinking. Achieving this consistency is crucial for the right texture in your Fraisier Cake Recipe.
3. Don’t Overwork the Batter
When folding the flour into the egg mixture for the genoise sponge, be gentle and avoid overmixing. Overworking the batter can deflate the eggs and result in a dense cake. The goal is to maintain as much air in the batter as possible for a light and fluffy cake in this Fraisier Cake Recipe.
4. Cool the Cake Completely
Ensure that the genoise sponge is completely cool before slicing it and assembling the cake. A warm cake can cause the crème mousseline to melt, making it difficult to assemble the Fraisier Cake Recipe properly.
5. Chill the Cake Before Serving
Chilling the assembled cake for at least 2 hours before serving is essential. This step allows the flavors to meld and the crème mousseline to firm up, making it easier to slice the cake cleanly. It also ensures that the cake holds its shape when served.
For more tips on baking and assembling a Fraisier cake, visit this guide from King Arthur Baking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraisier Cake
Can I make Fraisier Cake ahead of time?
Yes, Fraisier Cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld and improves the overall texture of the cake. Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to serve it. This make-ahead option is convenient when planning for a special occasion.
How do I store Fraisier Cake?
Fraisier Cake should be stored in the refrigerator due to the dairy content in the crème mousseline. Keep the cake covered to prevent it from drying out, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Proper storage is important to maintain the texture and flavor of your Fraisier Cake Recipe.
Can I freeze Fraisier Cake?
While it’s possible to freeze the genoise sponge, it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled Fraisier cake due to the delicate nature of the strawberries and crème mousseline. If you need to prepare parts of the cake in advance, consider freezing the sponge cake separately and assembling the cake fresh on the day you plan to serve it.
What can I serve with Fraisier Cake?
Fraisier Cake pairs beautifully with a glass of champagne, sparkling wine, or a cup of coffee. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. These pairings complement the flavors of your Fraisier Cake Recipe.
Can I use other fruits besides strawberries?
Yes, while strawberries are traditional, you can experiment with other fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, or even peaches. Just make sure the fruit you choose is ripe and firm enough to hold its shape when sliced and arranged in the cake. This adaptation allows you to customize your Fraisier Cake Recipe to suit your taste.
How do I prevent the marzipan from sticking?
When rolling out the marzipan, dust your work surface and rolling pin with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. If the marzipan becomes too sticky to handle, you can also chill it briefly in the refrigerator before rolling it out. This technique ensures a smooth finish for your Fraisier Cake Recipe.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Elegance of Fraisier Cake
This Fraisier Cake Recipe is a testament to the elegance and simplicity of French pâtisserie. With its light genoise sponge, rich crème mousseline, and fresh strawberries, this cake is the perfect dessert for any special occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply indulging in a love for classic French desserts, Fraisier Cake is sure to impress.
The combination of flavors and textures in this cake, along with its stunning presentation, makes it a standout dessert that is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Plus, with the various customization options, you can tailor this Fraisier Cake Recipe to suit any taste or event.
So, why not give this Fraisier Cake Recipe a try? With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you’ll create a beautiful and delicious cake that captures the essence of French baking.
8 thoughts on “Fraisier Cake Recipe: A Delicious French Dessert”