The Rise of Chantilly Cake on Social Media
When dessert time rolls around, the Chantilly cake has been making waves on social media as a must-try sweet treat. This eye-catching dessert, known for its multiple layers and colorful toppings, comes in various forms, with the berry-adorned version being the most Instagrammable. Yet, there’s another, less-known Hawaiian Chantilly cake, rich with chocolate and a unique buttery frosting, waiting to be discovered by cake aficionados.
Hawaii’s Hidden Gem: The Chocolate Chantilly Cake
The Hawaiian Chantilly cake stands apart from its continental cousin, boasting a chocolate base and a frosting rich with butter and evaporated milk. This local specialty is a staple in Hawaiian bakeries but remains a well-kept secret elsewhere. Its flavor profile and ingredients align more closely with a German chocolate cake, another American original, though the Hawaiian Chantilly’s exact origins remain a mystery.
Recipe Variations and Iconic Frosting
Whether home bakers start with a box mix or their own secret recipe, the Hawaiian Chantilly cake’s cocoa-infused batter is only the beginning. The iconic frosting, a blend of evaporated milk, eggs, and sugar, is what truly defines this dessert, lending it a rich sweetness without a hint of coconut, defying tropical expectations.
The Light and Fluffy American Chantilly Cake
On the mainland, the American Chantilly cake is a lighter affair, with vanilla and berries taking center stage. This version is deceptively simple to bake, with a base of cream, flour, and butter, all brought to lofty heights with baking powder. The frosting, a luscious concoction of heavy cream, cream cheese, and mascarpone, is what lends the cake its name, harking back to the French Chantilly cream.
From Whole Foods to Social Media Stardom
The berry-topped American Chantilly cake found fame thanks to Chaya Conrad, a baker whose creation at Whole Foods captured the hearts (and taste buds) of shoppers. The cake’s popularity skyrocketed on social media, leading Conrad to open Bywater Bakery, where the cake can be enjoyed in its most exquisite form.
Frosting: The Quintessential Element
For both the Hawaiian and American versions of Chantilly cake, it’s all about the frosting. The Hawaiian cake is differentiated by its chocolate sponge and signature yellow-hued frosting, often topped with macadamias or, less traditionally, coconut. The American version is more flexible, with variations that include yogurt or cream cheese, but always maintaining that defining layer of sweet, creamy perfection.
Diverse Recipes, Shared Delight
While both cakes share a light and airy texture, the slight differences in their recipes reflect the unique approaches of bakers from Hawaii to the mainland. The Hawaiian cake might include baking soda and cream of tartar, while the American version leans on cake flour and baking powder. Regardless of the specifics, both versions are stacked with care, promising a delight in every slice, whether you’re in the mood for chocolatey richness or a berry-infused spectacle.
