Cinnamon Chocolate Cake with Cinnamon Mascarpone Frosting
I did not grow up in a sport-playing or sport-watching household. The only sport my husband’s family watches is soccer, mostly the World Cup games and that is only on every four years. So last weekend was just a regular weekend for us. No crazy Superbowl parties. No yelling, no screaming, no cursing, no jumping, no arms waving. Just a nice peaceful family weekend. I used this quiet time to bake a cake.
I had Valentine’s on the brain when making this cake, but really you can make it for any occasion.
I still had two jars of homemade dulce de leche left and wanted to use some as a filling. Usually my in-laws use it to fill a yellow cake, but I wanted a chocolate cake. I also knew I wanted to make the Cinnamon Mascarpone Frosting I made for my Churro Cupcakes. I really love that frosting. It’s light, fluffy and not too sweet. Then I thought I would try adding cinnamon to the cake also to give it a little extra special taste.
The cake recipe makes two 9 inch round cakes, but since I had a 9 inch heart cake pan, I made two heart shaped cakes. They did turn out with some bubbling in the middle, but they were completely baked and I was going to cover them with frosting anyway.
For the filling I piped a small border of frosting around the sides of the cake and filled it in with a dulce de leche and crème fraïche mixture, then topped it with thinly sliced strawberries. Then I simply placed the other cake on top and frosted it.
I did go a little fancy on the frosting. I wanted to try a floral type pattern. I used an Ateco #827 tip and just swirled flowers all around the cake. I was in kind of a rush to finish before the baby woke from his nap, so it is not perfect. We will just call it a rustic look.
Then of course it looked to plain to me, so I added some lettering. I didn’t want to mess up the cake by writing directly on it, so I chose to use chocolate candy melt. I traced the cake pan on a piece of white paper, and wrote my lettering on it. Then I placed a piece of wax paper over the paper and taped it to the counter. With a piping bag and a Wilton #4 tip, I traced the letters with chocolate melt and let them harden, then carefully peeled them from the wax paper and placed them on the cake.
I was very pleased at how the cake turned out, especially the taste. The complimentary cinnamon in the cake and in the frosting was a treasure. And the sweetness of the the dulce the leche and the strawberries paired well with the chocolate cake. The cake was moist, but not heavy, the filling was not overpowering, just a tease in the middle. And the frosting was the pièce de résistance. A symphony of flavors with a dramatic ending.
Cinnamon Chocolate Cake with Cinnamon Mascarpone Frosting
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 20-30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Keywords: bake dessert chocolate cinnamon dulce de leche whipped cream cake
Ingredients (two 9 inch cakes)
For the cake
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 3/4 cups flour
- 3/4 cup cocoa
- 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup crème fraîche or sour cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup boiling water
For the filling
- 1/2 cup dulce de leche
- 1/2 tablespoon crème fraîche or sour cream
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, thinly sliced
For the frosting
- 2 cup heavy cream
- 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 drops red food coloring
Instructions
For the cake
Preheat oven to 350º F.
In a large bowl, sift together sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
In a stand mixer place eggs, milk, vanilla, and crème fraîche. Mix on low for about 1 minute.
Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix on low for about 3 minutes until all incorporated.
Stir in boiling water and carefully mix on low until batter is smooth (batter will be thin).
Divide batter into two greased 9 inch cake pans.
Bake at 350º F for 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool completely before filling.
For the filling
In a small bowl mix together the dulce de leche and crème fraîche, until smooth.
Using a pastry bag with tip or a Ziplock bag with tip cut off, pipe a border around the outer edge of the first cake.
Fill in with the dulce de leche mixture and spread evenly with spatula.
Then placed sliced strawberries over the mixture.
Place second cake on top of first one, lining up the edges.
Place cake in fridge while preparing frosting.
For the frosting
With an electric mixer on medium speed, whisk heavy cream until stiff peaks form (be careful not to overbeat, or cream will be grainy).
In another bowl, whisk together mascarpone, cinnamon and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture until completely incorporated. Add food coloring as you fold.
Using your pastry bag and favorite tip or with a spatula, spread the frosting over the cake, completely covering it, then place in fridge to set. Keep refrigerated.
Cupcake recipe adapted from Hershey’s Kitchens
Filling recipe by The Sweet Chick
Frosting recipe adapted from Martha Stewart
Related Posts
Subscribe for New Racipies
Get mental health tips, updates, and resources delivered to your inbox.
Are Raspberries Safe for Acid Reflux?
Introduction to Raspberries and Digestive Health
Raspberries, with their vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor, are a popular fruit known for their high nutritional value. They’re packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a healthy choice for most diets. However, for individuals managing acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), it’s important to determine whether raspberries are safe to consume and how they may impact symptoms.
This article explores the acidity of raspberries, their effects on acid reflux, and tips for incorporating them into a reflux-friendly diet.
Nutritional Profile of Raspberries
Raspberries are nutrient-rich and low in calories, making them a healthy addition to your meals. Here’s what you’ll find in 1 cup (about 123 grams) of fresh raspberries:
- Calories: 64
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Fiber: 8 grams, supporting digestion and gut health.
- Vitamin C: 54% of the daily recommended intake, boosting immunity and skin health.
- Vitamin K: Helps with blood clotting and bone health.
- Manganese: Supports metabolism and bone development.
- Antioxidants: Includes quercetin and ellagic acid, which reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
The high fiber content in raspberries is particularly beneficial for digestion, but their acidity can raise concerns for those with sensitive stomachs.
Are Raspberries Acidic or Alkaline?
Acidity of Raspberries
Raspberries are moderately acidic, with a pH ranging from 2.96 to 3.35. While they are less acidic than citrus fruits like lemons or grapefruits, their natural acidity can still irritate the esophagus, especially in individuals with acid reflux.
How Acidity Affects Acid Reflux?
Foods with low pH levels, like raspberries, may increase stomach acid production or irritate the esophagus if consumed in large amounts, potentially triggering acid reflux symptoms such as heartburn or regurgitation.
Do Raspberries Trigger Acid Reflux?
Raspberries can trigger acid reflux symptoms in some individuals, especially if consumed in excess or on an empty stomach. However, their high fiber content and anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce symptoms for others by promoting healthy digestion and soothing the digestive tract.
Why Raspberries May Worsen Symptoms?
- Acidity: Their moderate acidity may irritate the esophagus, particularly if it is already inflamed.
- Seeds: The small seeds in raspberries can be difficult to digest for some people, leading to bloating or discomfort.
- Portion Size: Eating large quantities of raspberries may overload the stomach and exacerbate reflux symptoms.
Author Tip: Are Raspberries Acidic and Cause Acid Reflux?
Potential Benefits of Raspberries for Acid Reflux
Despite their acidity, raspberries may offer some benefits for digestive health:
- High Fiber Content: Supports gut motility and helps prevent bloating, a common trigger for reflux.
- Antioxidants: Reduce inflammation in the stomach and esophagus, potentially soothing irritation.
- Low Fat Content: Unlike high-fat foods, raspberries are unlikely to slow digestion or increase reflux risk.
How to Safely Consume Raspberries with Acid Reflux?
To enjoy the health benefits of raspberries without worsening reflux symptoms, follow these tips:
Eat in Moderation
Stick to small servings—about 1/2 cup at a time—to minimize the risk of irritation or reflux.
Pair with Low-Acid Foods
Combine raspberries with alkaline or neutral foods like oatmeal, bananas, or yogurt to balance their acidity and make them gentler on the stomach.
Avoid Eating on an Empty Stomach
Eating raspberries as part of a meal can help buffer their acidity and reduce the likelihood of reflux symptoms.
Choose Fresh Over Processed
Fresh raspberries are less likely to trigger symptoms than processed versions like jams or juices, which often contain added sugars and preservatives.
Alternatives to Raspberries for Acid Reflux Sufferers
If raspberries consistently trigger acid reflux symptoms, consider these less acidic fruit options:
- Bananas: Naturally alkaline and gentle on the stomach.
- Melons: Hydrating and low in acidity.
- Papaya: Contains digestive enzymes that may help soothe the stomach.
- Blueberries: Less acidic than raspberries and rich in antioxidants.
Author Tip: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD
Reflux-Friendly Recipes with Raspberries
Raspberry Oatmeal Bowl
- Ingredients: 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal, 1/4 cup raspberries, and a drizzle of honey.
- Preparation: Add raspberries and honey to oatmeal for a fiber-rich, reflux-friendly breakfast.
Banana Raspberry Smoothie
- Ingredients: 1/4 cup raspberries, 1/2 banana, and 1/2 cup almond milk.
- Preparation: Blend the ingredients into a creamy, nutrient-packed drink that balances acidity with alkaline components.
Raspberry Spinach Salad
- Ingredients: Fresh spinach, 1/4 cup raspberries, sliced almonds, and a light olive oil dressing.
- Preparation: Toss ingredients for a healthy, low-acid salad.
Tips for Managing Acid Reflux
In addition to consuming raspberries mindfully, consider these lifestyle tips for managing acid reflux:
- Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Avoid overeating, as large meals can increase stomach pressure and exacerbate reflux.
- Stay Upright After Eating: Wait at least 2–3 hours before lying down to prevent acid backflow.
- Avoid Common Triggers: Limit spicy, fatty, or highly acidic foods like citrus, tomatoes, and caffeine.
- Elevate Your Bed: Use a wedge pillow or raise the head of your bed to reduce nighttime reflux.
- Drink Water Throughout the Day: Staying hydrated supports digestion and helps dilute stomach acid.
Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis
Conclusion
Raspberries are moderately acidic and can trigger acid reflux symptoms in some individuals, particularly when consumed in large amounts or on an empty stomach. However, their high fiber content and antioxidant properties may offer digestive benefits for others when eaten in moderation and paired with low-acid foods. If you experience reflux symptoms after eating raspberries, consider reducing your portion size or exploring alternative fruits that are gentler on the stomach.
FAQs
Are raspberries acidic or alkaline?
Raspberries are moderately acidic, with a pH range of 3.2 to 3.9.
Can raspberries trigger acid reflux?
Yes, raspberries’ acidity may trigger acid reflux in some individuals, especially if consumed in large portions.
How can I eat raspberries without worsening acid reflux?
Consume raspberries in small portions, pair them with low-acid foods, and avoid eating them on an empty stomach.
Are fresh raspberries better than processed for acid reflux?
Yes, fresh raspberries are a better choice than processed versions like jams or juices, which often contain added sugars that can worsen reflux.
What are good fruit alternatives to raspberries for acid reflux?
Bananas, melons, papaya, and blueberries are excellent low-acid alternatives to raspberries.
Related Posts
Subscribe for New Racipies
Get mental health tips, updates, and resources delivered to your inbox.