Introduction
Welcome to the world of delightful desserts, where sweetness takes center stage! Today, I’m excited to share a special treat that’s perfect for any occasion—this luscious Sugar Cookie Cake topped with rich Raspberry Buttercream. It’s a whimsical twist on traditional cookies, transforming the classic flavors into a memorable cake that’s sure to please everyone. Imagine a soft, buttery cake that is perfectly complemented by a vibrant, fruity frosting, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Let’s indulge in this delicious journey together!
Ingredients
To make this delightful Sugar Cookie Cake with Raspberry Buttercream, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Sugar Cookie Cake:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- For the Raspberry Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup raspberry puree (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12-16 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure a perfectly cooked cake that doesn’t stick.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside to combine the dry ingredients perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—this step is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, ensuring that you mix well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for a beautiful aroma and flavor.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix!
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Pop the cake into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You can’t beat that smell!
- Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, filling your kitchen with sweet scents.
- While waiting for the cake to cool, prepare the raspberry buttercream. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugary cloud.
- Add in the raspberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until the buttercream is smooth and fluffy, resembling a dreamy pastel cloud.
- Once the cake has cooled, generously frost it with the raspberry buttercream and feel free to decorate as desired. Fresh raspberries, sprinkles, or even a dusting of powdered sugar make perfect finishing touches!
Notes or Tips
For the raspberry puree, you can make your own by blending fresh raspberries and straining out the seeds, or simply use store-bought. If you like a little tang, you can also add more puree to taste. This cake keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—or in the fridge for up to a week, if it lasts that long!
Cooking Techniques
This Sugar Cookie Cake showcases the straightforward baking technique of creaming butter and sugar to create airiness in your cake. It’s a forgiving recipe, so don’t worry if it’s not perfect the first time! Remember, the key is in the gentle mixing and the cooling time that allows the cake to firm up nicely before frosting.
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld deliciously.
What if I don’t have raspberries?
No problem! You can use any kind of fruit puree you have on hand, like strawberry or blueberry, for a delicious variation of this frosting.
Conclusion
This Sugar Cookie Cake with Raspberry Buttercream is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that’s bound to bring smiles to your gathering. The soft, buttery cake paired with the vibrant, fruity frosting is a match made in dessert heaven. So gather your loved ones, slice up this delightful cake, and enjoy a sweet moment together. Happy baking!