Desserts > Cake > Mexican Cakes

Torta Maria Luisa with Whipped Cream and Berries Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
12. Spread the whipped cream on top of the cooled cake.
13. Arrange the mixed berries on top of the whipped cream.
14. Serve and enjoy!


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 180mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 26g
Protein: 5g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cornstarch can be substituted with potato starch or arrowroot powder.
- Mixed berries can be substituted with any fresh or frozen fruit of your choice.

Variations:
- Add lemon zest or juice to the batter for a citrusy twist.
- Use chocolate whipped cream instead of regular whipped cream for a chocolatey version.
- Add a layer of pastry cream or custard between the cake and whipped cream for an extra creamy texture.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before beating it with the sugar to ensure a smooth and fluffy batter.
- Do not overmix the batter or the cake will be tough.
- Use a serrated knife to cut the cake for clean slices.
- Chill the whipped cream and berries before assembling the cake for a firmer texture.

Storage instructions:
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
The cake can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Presentation ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant look.
- Top the cake with extra berries and mint leaves for a colorful and fresh presentation.

Garnishes:
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
- Mint leaves

Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Sparkling wine

Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Green salad
- Cheese platter

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cake is too dry, it may have been overbaked. Next time, check the cake earlier and adjust the baking time accordingly.
- If the cake is too dense, it may have been overmixed. Be sure to mix the batter until just combined.
- If the whipped cream is too runny, it may have been underwhipped. Continue to beat the cream until stiff peaks form.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and properly stored.
- Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling food.
- Use pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Food history:
Torta Maria Luisa is a classic Italian cake named after Queen Maria Luisa of Bourbon-Parma, who was the wife of King Charles IV of Spain. The cake is traditionally made with a sponge cake base, pastry cream, and fresh fruit.

Flavor profiles:
Light, fluffy, and sweet with a hint of vanilla and a burst of fresh berries.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the cake as a dessert or a sweet treat for any occasion.

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Region: Mexican

Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Fruity, Tangy, Light