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Decadent Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake Recipe

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4.6 from 61 reviews

The Decadent Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a richly flavored chocolate cake infused with fresh blackberry puree, layered with a luscious blackberry filling and topped with a smooth chocolate ganache. This striking cake combines the deep flavors of black cocoa and fresh berries with a gothic aesthetic, perfect for special occasions or dramatic dessert presentations.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups black cocoa powder
  • 0.5 cups cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.25 cups coconut oil or olive oil
  • 0.25 cups fresh blackberry puree
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • Purple or red food coloring (optional)

Blackberry Filling Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp water

Ganache Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cake Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure the cakes do not stick during baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, black cocoa powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time into the creamed butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
  5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate container, mix together the fresh blackberry puree, buttermilk, and coconut or olive oil.
  6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed wet ingredients in the mixer, alternating with the blackberry liquid mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.
  7. Add Color (Optional): If desired, add a few drops of purple or red food coloring to enhance the cake’s deep hue and mix gently.
  8. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool Cakes: Let the cakes cool completely in their pans before removing them. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully.
  10. Prepare Blackberry Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, and a cinnamon stick. Simmer over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until berries release their juices and start to break down.
  11. Thicken Filling: Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the blackberry mixture and continue cooking until thickened. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely. For a smoother filling, strain out seeds before assembly.
  12. Make Ganache: Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, but do not boil. Pour hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 to 3 minutes, then stir until smooth. If desired, add butter to give extra shine. Allow ganache to cool until it thickens but remains pourable.
  13. Assemble Cake: If the cake layers have domed tops, trim them to create even surfaces. Place one cake layer on a stand or serving plate.
  14. Add Filling and Ganache: Spread a thin layer of ganache over the first cake layer, then add a generous layer of blackberry filling. Place the second cake layer on top.
  15. Decorate with Ganache: Pour the remaining ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a dramatic gothic drip effect.
  16. Garnish and Chill: Decorate with fresh blackberries, black sugar pearls, or chocolate skulls as desired. Let the ganache set for 20 to 30 minutes before slicing.
  17. Serve: Slice and serve this decadent cake with a glass of red wine or espresso to enhance its rich flavors and gothic ambiance.

Notes

  • This cake benefits from the use of freshly pureed blackberries for a vibrant flavor and color.
  • If you prefer a seedless filling, be sure to strain the blackberry mixture after cooking and before chilling.
  • Adding food coloring is optional but helps to achieve the signature deep purple-red gothic appearance.
  • Butter in the ganache adds extra gloss but can be omitted for a more intense chocolate flavor.
  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Bring cake slices to room temperature before serving to appreciate full flavor and texture.

Keywords: blackberry cake, velvet cake, gothic cake, chocolate cake, berry filling, ganache, decadent dessert

Find it online: https://tastygenius.com/decadent-blackberry-velvet-gothic-cake-recipe/