Tutti frutti cake is a soft, colorful, and deliciously nostalgic dessert that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. Packed with candied fruits and subtle flavors of vanilla and milk, it’s one of the easiest cakes you can bake at home without any fancy equipment. This article walks you through a specific, step-by-step tutti frutti cake recipe that’s beginner-friendly and gives bakery-style results.
What Is Tutti Frutti Cake?
Tutti frutti cake is a light sponge cake dotted with small cubes of candied papaya known as tutti frutti. These colorful bits not only brighten the appearance of the cake but also add a chewy, sweet surprise in every bite. It’s a favorite in Indian households, especially as a tea-time snack or birthday treat for kids.
Ingredients for Tutti Frutti Cake
All ingredients should be at room temperature for best results.
Dry ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon cornflour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (preferably full-fat)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup tutti frutti
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to coat tutti frutti)
Step-by-Step Tutti Frutti Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf tin or round 7-inch pan with butter and line it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornflour, and salt together. Sifting helps combine them evenly and aerates the flour for a lighter cake texture.
Step 3: Coat the Tutti Frutti
Toss the tutti frutti pieces in 1 tablespoon of flour. This step prevents them from sinking to the bottom while baking and keeps them suspended throughout the cake.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until pale and fluffy. Use an electric beater or whisk for 3 to 5 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter, giving the cake its soft texture.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar. Beat well after each addition to avoid curdling. Stir in the vanilla extract. The batter should look creamy and smooth at this stage.
Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients and Milk
Add half of the dry flour mixture to the wet batter and gently fold it in. Add half the milk and repeat. Continue alternating and folding in the rest of the flour and milk until well combined. Do not overmix, or the cake may turn dense.
Step 7: Add Tutti Frutti
Gently fold in the floured tutti frutti with a spatula. Make sure they are evenly spread throughout the batter.
Step 8: Pour and Bake
Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Level the top using a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Insert a toothpick or skewer in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not skip coating the tutti frutti with flour.
- Always use room-temperature ingredients to help the batter mix evenly.
- If the top is browning too fast, cover loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- You can replace milk with orange juice for a citrus twist.
- For an eggless version, use ½ cup curd or ¼ cup condensed milk as a substitute for each egg.
Storage and Shelf Life
Tutti frutti cake stays fresh for 3 to 4 days at room temperature in an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to a week. Before serving, let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly for better texture.
Why This Cake Is Perfect for Beginners
Tutti frutti cake is simple, doesn’t require any frosting, and uses ingredients that are easily available in most kitchens. It’s a great first cake for new bakers and is often enjoyed without any toppings. The balance of sweetness and chewiness makes it a favorite with both kids and adults.
Serving Suggestions
You can enjoy tutti frutti cake on its own or pair it with:
- A cup of tea or coffee
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of chocolate syrup for added richness
It also works well as a lunchbox snack or a sweet option for weekend brunches.
Final Words
This tutti frutti cake recipe is your go-to guide for a quick, bakery-style cake that’s easy, colorful, and crowd-pleasing. Follow these steps, and you’ll get a soft, moist, and flavorful cake every single time. It’s the kind of simple joy that reminds you of childhood but still fits perfectly in today’s kitchen. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back to this classic.
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