Summer Berry Shortcakes With Vanilla Sauce

Directions

1. TO MAKE BERRY FILLING : In a bowl, combine raspberries, blackberries, sugar and framboise (or kirsch).
2. Let stand at room temperature, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
3. TO MAKE & ASSEMBLE SHORTCAKES : Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat it with nonstick spray.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk all-purpose and cake flours, ¼ cup sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt, Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut cream cheese into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse meal.
5. In a glass measuring cup, combine ¾ cup buttermilk, oil and vanilla. Make a well in the dry ingredients. Add wet ingredients and stir with a fork until just combined. (Dough will be slightly sticky; do not over-mix,)
6. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat into a ¾-inch-thick circle.
7. With a floured 3- or 3½-inch cutter, cut out shortcakes and place on prepared baking sheet. Press dough scraps together and repeat to make 8 shortcakes.
8. Brush shortcake tops with remaining 2 tablespoons buttermilk and sprinkle with remaining 1 tablespoon sugar.
9. Bake shortcakes for 10 to 12 minutes, or until light golden. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. To serve, split shortcakes in half with a serrated knife.
10. Set bottoms on dessert plates. Spoon on berry filling and vanilla sauce. Set tops on at an angle. Serve immediately.
11. Makes 8 servings.