Description
Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a rich, dramatic dessert with deep berry flavor and a striking visual appeal. This decadent cake features blackberry-infused velvet layers, a luscious cream cheese frosting, and fresh blackberries for a stunning gothic-style presentation.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– ¾ cup blackberry puree (strained)
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp white vinegar
– Optional: black gel food coloring for extra depth - For the Blackberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– ¼ cup blackberry puree (reduced slightly)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: black gel food coloring - For Garnish:
– Fresh blackberries
– Edible flowers or fresh herbs (e.g. mint, thyme)
– Optional: blackberry syrup drizzle or dark chocolate ganache
Instructions
- Make the Cake:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each.
4. Mix in blackberry puree, vanilla, vinegar, and food coloring (if using).
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing just until combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between pans.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting. - Make the Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar.
3. Mix in reduced blackberry puree, vanilla, and optional coloring. Beat until fluffy and smooth. - Assemble:
1. Frost between the cooled cake layers and over the top and sides.
2. Garnish with fresh blackberries, herbs, and optional syrup or ganache.
3. Chill slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
