Ultimate Birthday Gateau

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a round cake pan.

2.In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3.Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

4.In a separate bowl, combine flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk.

5.Divide the batter in half. Mix cocoa powder with hot water and fold it into one half of the batter.

6.Pour the two batters into the cake pan, alternating between the plain batter and the chocolate batter to create a marbled effect.

7.Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.

8.Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Dissolve gelatin in cold water, then heat it until dissolved. Gradually add the gelatin to the whipped cream while beating.

9.Slice the cake horizontally into two layers. Spread apricot jam on one layer and top with mixed berries. Place the second layer on top.

10.Cover the cake with the whipped cream mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the cream.

11.In a small saucepan, heat apricot jam and water until smooth. Brush the mixture over the top of the cake and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.

12.Serve and enjoy your delicious Birthday Gateau!