Maple Berry Shortcake

Celebrate Canada Day with this delightful Maple Berry Shortcake, a perfect blend of fluffy vanilla cake layered with fresh berries and a hint of maple syrup. The sweetness of the berries, combined with the rich maple flavor, creates a deliciously light and refreshing dessert that embodies the spirit of summer in Canada.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Once the cakes are cool, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
9. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, drizzle with half of the maple syrup, and top with half of the mixed berries. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the berries.
10. Place the second cake layer on top, drizzle with the remaining maple syrup, and garnish with the remaining berries and whipped cream.