Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.

2. Bake the Cake

• Prepare the Pans: Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
• Divide and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Frosting

• Beat Cream Cheese and Mascarpone: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and mascarpone together until smooth.
• Add Butter: Add the softened butter and beat until well combined.
• Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

4. Assemble the Cake

• Level the Cakes: If necessary, level the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife.
• Frost the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
• Decorate: Decorate the cake with fresh berries and whipped cream.

5. Serve

• Enjoy: Serve the Gentilly cake at room temperature. Enjoy with your favorite beverage.