Introduction
Welcome to a delightful baking adventure! Today, we’re creating a luscious Sugar Cookie Cake topped with a scrumptious Raspberry Buttercream. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a sweet celebration, or just a cozy afternoon treat. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie cake that bursts with flavor and is perfectly complemented by the tangy sweetness of raspberry frosting. Let’s dive into the steps to create this charming dessert that will surely impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
For the Sugar Cookie Cake:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Raspberry Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup raspberry puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12-16 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring everything is well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and oh-so-inviting.
- Add in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing until completely blended and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
- While the cake cools, prepare the raspberry buttercream by beating the softened butter in a mixing bowl until it’s creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar, raspberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the frosting is fluffy and delightful.
- Once your cake has cooled, spread the raspberry buttercream evenly over the top, creating a beautiful layer that’s impossible to resist.
- Slice the cake into squares, and serve to your eager guests!
Notes or Tips
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best mixing results.
- For the raspberry puree, you can use fresh or frozen raspberries blended until smooth. Strain to remove seeds if desired.
- Feel free to customize the cake with additional toppings like fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra flavor.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases some simple yet effective baking techniques:
- Whisking Dry Ingredients: This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents, helping your cake rise uniformly.
- Beating Butter and Sugar: Creaming these ingredients together incorporates air, resulting in a light and fluffy cake texture.
- Spreading Frosting: Use an offset spatula or a butter knife for a smooth, even layer of frosting that’s both easy on the eyes and the taste buds.
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving for the freshest taste.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, refrigerate it for longer freshness.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Freeze the unfrosted cake for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
Conclusion
This Sugar Cookie Cake with Raspberry Buttercream is not only a treat for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. With its soft, chewy texture and the sweet-tart flavors of raspberry frosting, it’s bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every bite, and savor the smiles it brings to your loved ones!