Print

Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake: A Dark, Lush Dessert Dream Recipe

Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake: A Dark, Lush Dessert Dream Recipe

5.2 from 19 reviews

Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a dark, luscious dessert featuring moist cocoa layers layered with a thick blackberry filling and topped with whipped cream, fresh blackberries, edible flowers, and dark chocolate shavings. This gothic-inspired cake balances rich chocolate and tart berries, offering a dramatic and elegant treat perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 grams)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300 grams)
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (75 grams)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil (180 ml)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (240 ml)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup hot water (120 ml)

Blackberry Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries (225 grams)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch slurry)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Whipped Cream Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (360 ml)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (30 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Decorations

  • Fresh blackberries
  • Edible flowers
  • Dark chocolate shavings
  • Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

  1. Bake the Cakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch or 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients (flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt). In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until combined. Stir in the hot water to create a smooth batter. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely on a wire rack before assembling.
  2. Make the Filling: In a saucepan, combine the blackberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the berries release their juices and become juicy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and lemon juice to the pan and stir continuously until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  3. Whip the Cream: Using a chilled mixing bowl and beaters, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will be your luscious topping for the cake.
  4. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the cooled blackberry filling evenly over this layer. Top with the second cake layer. Generously spread the whipped cream over the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with fresh blackberries, edible flowers, dark chocolate shavings, and a light dusting of cocoa powder for a stunning presentation.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the whipped cream to set. Slice carefully and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor experience.

Notes

  • You can use frozen blackberries; just thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
  • Ensure the cake is completely cooled before adding the filling and whipped cream to prevent curdling or melting.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with vinegar and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
  • The cake pans should be the same size to ensure even layering.
  • Use fresh, ripe blackberries for the best flavor in the filling and decoration.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackberry cake, chocolate cake, whipped cream, gothic cake, berry filling, cocoa cake, dessert, layered cake, elegant cake