There’s something truly magical about a raspberry filling in a cake. Whether it’s layered between soft vanilla sponge or tucked inside decadent chocolate layers, that burst of bright, tart raspberry flavor always brings the perfect contrast to the sweetness.
I first made this filling for a summer wedding cake, and it’s been my go-to ever since. The key is balancing the tartness of fresh raspberries with just enough sugar, allowing the natural fruit flavor to shine through.
This recipe is simple, but the result is a thick, luscious filling that not only holds its shape between cake layers but also adds a pop of color and flavor. It’s the perfect addition to any cake you’re planning for a special occasion—or just to elevate an everyday dessert. Plus, it pairs beautifully with everything from classic Nutella Cake to something more unexpected, like Ihop copycat pancakes, for a fun breakfast twist.
The best part? You can make it in advance, so you’re never scrambling when it’s time to assemble your masterpiece.
Raspberry Filling For Cake
Equipment
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Small saucepan
- Heatproof container
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice optional, but recommended for best flavor
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar and cornstarch until well blended.
- Add raspberries, water, and lemon juice, stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Set the heat to medium, being careful not to raise it higher, as slow heating ensures the sugar dissolves properly and the mixture thickens evenly.
- Stir frequently as the raspberries release their juices and the mixture starts to bubble, which usually takes around 7 minutes.
- Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Keep in mind, that it will further thicken as it cools, so avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming too stiff.
- Once done, transfer the mixture to a heat-safe container and let it cool to room temperature before using.
- If not used immediately, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.
- To loosen after refrigeration, microwave for a few seconds until spreadable.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar depending on your taste preference.
- Use fresh raspberries for a brighter flavor, but frozen raspberries work well too.
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 37 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Vitamin A | 7 IU |
| Vitamin C | 6 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Calcium | 5 mg |
What To Serve With Raspberry Filling For Cake?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I prevent my raspberry filling from becoming too runny?
Be sure to use the correct amount of cornstarch or thickener, and cook the filling long enough for it to properly thicken. Remember, the filling will continue to thicken as it cools.
How do I prevent raspberry seeds in my cake filling?
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the cooked filling through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds before cooling.