Raspberry Layer Cake Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that is as stunning as it is delicious, let me introduce you to the Raspberry Layer Cake—a true showstopper that combines moist, tender cake layers with a luxuriously light raspberry filling and a dreamy pink buttercream frosting. This Raspberry Layer Cake brings together the perfect balance of sweet vanilla, tangy fresh raspberries, and creamy frosting, creating a dessert that feels both festive and homey all at once. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this cake will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Raspberry Layer Cake is made with simple, classic ingredients that each play a crucial role in crafting its unforgettable flavor and texture. From the fluffy buttermilk-infused cake layers to the fresh, vibrant raspberry filling and the silky smooth pink buttercream, every component shines through beautifully.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake layers, providing structure and tenderness.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise perfectly, making it light and airy.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors to create a balanced taste.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness to both the cake and frosting for a creamy, moist texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
• Eggs: Act as a binder and give the cake stability and lift.
• Vanilla extract: Lends warmth and depth to the cake and filling.
• Buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist while adding a subtle tang.
• Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to perfection for the raspberry filling and frosting to add lightness and creaminess.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens both the filling and buttercream.
• Fresh raspberries: Provide bright, juicy bursts of tartness contrasted with sweet cake and frosting.
• Food coloring (red or pink): Gives the frosting its charming, rosy hue for visual appeal.
• Optional garnishes: Fresh raspberries, white chocolate shavings, or sprinkles for an elegant finish.

How to Make Raspberry Layer Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepping your cake pans with grease and parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute your leavening agents. Then, cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and light—this step is key for a tender crumb. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next, followed by the fragrant vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture, to keep the batter smooth and evenly mixed. Divide this luscious batter among your prepared pans and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops turn a beautiful golden color and spring back when pressed lightly. Let the cakes cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Whip Up the Raspberry Filling

While the cake layers cool, it’s the perfect time to make the raspberry filling. Start with cold heavy whipping cream, which whips best when chilled. Beat it together with powdered sugar and a touch of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form—this ensures the filling is delightfully light and airy. Gently fold in the lightly mashed fresh raspberries to introduce a burst of fruity flavor and an irresistible soft texture. The goal here is to keep the filling fluffy while creating inviting pockets of tartness.

Step 3: Craft the Pink Buttercream Frosting

Now for the frosting that makes the Raspberry Layer Cake visually stunning and decadently smooth. Beat softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar to prevent any lumps and make the frosting silky. Mix in heavy cream and vanilla extract to adjust the texture and flavor, and finally, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring until the frosting looks perfectly rosy. The result is a luscious, spreadable buttercream that complements the fruit filling beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble Your Raspberry Layer Cake

Place your first cooled cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of the raspberry filling evenly on top. Repeat this process for the remaining layers, stacking them carefully. Once all layers have their fresh raspberry filling, frost the entire exterior of the cake with the pink buttercream, smoothing the sides for a clean finish. For an extra touch of elegance, pipe decorative swirls on the top of the cake to make it look like a dessert masterpiece.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

To finish your Raspberry Layer Cake, garnish with fresh raspberries—dotting them around the top adds a vibrant pop of color and a hint of freshness in every bite. If you want to go one step further, sprinkle some delicate white chocolate shavings or festive sprinkles to make it perfectly celebratory. Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve to let everything meld together and stay fresh.

How to Serve Raspberry Layer Cake

Garnishes

Fresh raspberries are the star garnish here as they echo the fruity filling and give the cake a natural, inviting look. You can also add sprinkles or white chocolate shavings for a bit of whimsy and texture contrast. These simple touches elevate the cake’s appearance and excite your guests even before the first forkful.

Side Dishes

Serve this Raspberry Layer Cake alongside a light cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee to complement the sweetness and balance the richness of the buttercream. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream also pairs beautifully, particularly if you’re enjoying it as an after-dinner treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the traditional slice and try serving your Raspberry Layer Cake as mini individual cakes for parties by layering and frosting smaller rounds or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes. You can also plate it alongside a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a fresh berry salad for an extra burst of flavor and color on the plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Raspberry Layer Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the fresh fruit and buttercream, the cake stays best chilled and should be enjoyed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness and texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cake, it’s best to freeze the layers before assembly, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. The filling and frosting are best made and applied fresh, as freezing can alter their texture. When ready to serve, thaw the layers overnight in the fridge and assemble your Raspberry Layer Cake for the freshest finish.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer, leave it out of the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving to soften the buttercream and bring out the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries for the filling?

While fresh raspberries are ideal for the bright flavor and texture, you can use frozen raspberries if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can affect your filling’s consistency.

How do I make this cake dairy-free?

To make this Raspberry Layer Cake dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream. Make sure to choose vegan-friendly powdered sugar as well.

Why is buttermilk recommended in the recipe?

Buttermilk adds a subtle tang and acidity that tenderizes the cake crumb and enhances the overall flavor, making the layers moist and soft. If you don’t have buttermilk, mixing milk with a little vinegar is a perfect substitute.

Can I prepare this cake a day ahead?

Absolutely! This Raspberry Layer Cake actually benefits from a few hours in the fridge after assembly, which helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness.

How do I get the frosting really smooth?

Beat your butter until it’s very creamy before gradually adding powdered sugar. Adding heavy cream a little at a time helps create that silky, spreadable texture. For the smoothest finish, use a bench scraper or offset spatula when frosting your cake.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Raspberry Layer Cake is more than just making a dessert—it’s creating a centerpiece that will wow friends and family with every bite. The combination of tender cake, fruity raspberry filling, and luscious pink buttercream is utterly irresistible and perfect for any celebration or just a special treat because you deserve it. Give this recipe a try and watch how it becomes a treasured classic in your kitchen!