Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake Recipe

I have so many fond memories of baking with my grandmother. She had this uncanny knack for turning simple ingredients into something truly magical. One of the things I remember most is how she always encouraged me to experiment with flavors and spices, and to not be afraid to make mistakes. It’s a lesson that has stuck with me to this day, and it’s what inspires me to create recipes that are both delicious and approachable for fellow home cooks. And it all started with an unforgettable Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake.

One such recipe that holds a special place in my heart (and my family’s appetites) is this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake. It’s more than a dessert; it’s a connection to autumn evenings, to laughter around the table, and to the joy of creating something beautiful and delicious together. It all started when I wanted a cake with a spooky aesthetic, yet with an authentic flavor that would please even the pickiest eaters.

What makes this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake so special is the combination of rich, dark cocoa with the bright, tart burst of blackberries, all enveloped in a velvety smooth texture. It’s a cake that’s both elegant and comforting, perfect for any occasion, from Halloween gatherings to cozy family dinners. This creation represents my goal to create family connection through authentic flavors, and to share the joy of simple, nourishing meals with others. This gothic blackberry cake has been a real hit with my daughter. It is perfect for halloween and the spooky season.

I invite you to join me on this kitchen adventure! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and fun. Let’s bring some gothic charm and deliciousness into your home with this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Here’s everything you’ll need to conjure up this enchanting Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake. Trust me, this gothic blackberry cake ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for our cake. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a moist, tender crumb.
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake its deep, dark chocolate flavor and gothic appeal. I recommend using a high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become light and airy.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: Reacts with the buttermilk to create a tender crumb and helps the cake rise.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, creating a tender, flavorful cake. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a liquid measuring cup, then filling the rest of the cup with milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps keep the cake tender.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a hint of warmth.
• 1 cup hot coffee: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds moisture.
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blackberries: Provides a burst of fruity flavor and beautiful color. If using frozen, do not thaw them before adding to the batter.

For the Black Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Provides the base for our creamy frosting. Make sure the butter is softened but still cool to the touch.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor and helps achieve the black color.
• ¼ cup milk or heavy cream: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth, spreadable consistency.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Black food coloring (gel or liquid): To achieve the gothic black color. Start with a small amount and add more until you reach the desired shade.

You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake at my local farmer’s market. My family loves when I add this extra touch to our Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake: a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for added warmth!

Let’s Create This Together!

Ready to embark on this flavorful baking adventure? Follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake that will impress everyone!

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. I like to use parchment paper rounds on the bottom to ensure the cakes release easily. This way the velvet blackberry cake recipe will be easy and smooth.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake – learn from my experience!
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
4. Stir in Coffee: Gradually add the hot coffee to the batter, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin, but don’t worry, that’s normal! In my kitchen, this flavorful Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake typically takes about 30-35 minutes to bake.
5. Fold in Blackberries: Gently fold in the blackberries. Be careful not to crush them, as this can turn the batter purple.
6. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
7. Cool Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting.
8. Make the Black Buttercream: While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined.
9. Add Liquid and Vanilla: Add the milk or heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
10. Achieve Black Color: Add black food coloring, a little at a time, until you reach the desired shade of black. Be patient, as it may take a bit of food coloring to achieve a true black.
11. Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Don’t be surprised if your Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake develops a small crack on top – it adds to the gothic charm!
12. Decorate (Optional): If desired, decorate the cake with fresh blackberries, chocolate shavings, or other gothic-inspired decorations. While your Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family! You can also use a simple Chocolate Blackberry Elegantly Gothic Halloween Cake – Domestic … to garnish the cake.

How We Love to Enjoy This!

This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a versatile delight, fitting seamlessly into various occasions and pairings. The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake appears with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Our family loves to enjoy this cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy sweetness complements the dark chocolate and tart blackberries perfectly. It’s a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated, making it ideal for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings. This gothic blackberry cake is perfect for Halloween parties, spooky-themed birthdays, or any time you want to add a touch of dark elegance to your dessert table. The cake is very similar to Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake Hey, everybody. This is a follow up.

For a truly decadent experience, pair this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake with a glass of rich, dark red wine or a cup of hot coffee. The bitterness of the coffee or wine will enhance the chocolate flavors and create a delightful contrast with the sweetness of the cake.

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in our house!), this cake is also delicious the next day. You can even crumble it up and use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt. Here’s some other dishes that taste great. You can also try a Halloween No Bake Icebox Cake!

During the fall, I love to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced twist. In the summer, I sometimes top the cake with a blackberry compote made with fresh, seasonal berries. The addition of cinnamon adds a depth to the flavor. The additional seasonal berries make the cake vibrant and flavorful. This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying!

Whenever I make this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake, it always receives rave reviews. Guests are always impressed by the striking black color and the delicious combination of flavors. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make. It reminds me of the halloween oreo dirt cake because of the dark colors and spooky theme.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are some common questions I get about making this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake. I hope these answers help you on your baking journey!

Does this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake really satisfy hearty appetites?

Absolutely! The rich chocolate flavor and moist, tender crumb make it a satisfying dessert for even the heartiest appetites. It’s a cake that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake?

You can reduce the amount of cocoa powder slightly or use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate in the frosting. You can also add a layer of vanilla buttercream between the cake layers to balance the flavors.

How can I prepare this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake ahead for busy weeks?

You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and freeze them, well-wrapped, for up to a month. Make the frosting a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the cake, let the frosting come to room temperature and beat it until smooth before frosting the cake.

Can I use a different type of berry in this cake?

Yes, you can substitute raspberries, blueberries, or even mixed berries for the blackberries. Each berry will impart its own unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!

What’s the best way to get a true black color for the frosting?

Use a gel food coloring, as it’s more concentrated than liquid food coloring. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until you reach the desired shade. Be patient, as it may take a bit of food coloring to achieve a true black.

My frosting is too thick. What should I do?

Add a tablespoon of milk or heavy cream at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as this can make the frosting too thin.

Is it necessary to use hot coffee in the batter?

While you can use hot water instead, the hot coffee really enhances the chocolate flavor of the cake. I highly recommend using coffee for the best flavor. I had a similar question when I first started working on My daughter’s gift to me Four layer red velvet with cream cheese …

Final Kitchen Wisdom:

This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake has become a beloved treat in our family, and I hope it will become one in yours too. It perfectly supports our family’s authentic meal goals by providing a delicious and visually stunning dessert that’s made with wholesome ingredients and a touch of love. I believe authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices and a willingness to experiment.

My Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake Flavor Secrets:

1. High-Quality Cocoa: Using a good quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder makes a huge difference in the depth of flavor.
2. Hot Coffee: Don’t skip the hot coffee! It intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds moisture to the cake.
3. Fresh Blackberries: If possible, use fresh blackberries for the best flavor and texture.

Here are a few family-tested variations. For a minty twist, add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter and top the cake with chocolate shavings. For a caramel flavor, drizzle caramel sauce over each cake layer before frosting. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. This makes the cake similar to a candy corn poke cake

My son loves the minty version, while my daughter prefers the classic blackberry flavor. I encourage you to make this recipe your own and adapt it to your family’s taste preferences. I hope that the Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake becomes your signature version of the cake.

I hope you enjoy creating this enchanting Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake as much as I do. Remember, cooking is about more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through food. Happy baking!

Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake

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This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a stunning dessert with a rich, moist crumb and a deep blackberry flavor. Its dark and mysterious appearance makes it perfect for Halloween or any special occasion.

• Author: Savannah Rose
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot coffee
• 1 cup blackberry puree (fresh or frozen)
• For the Frosting:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup blackberry puree
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Black food coloring (gel)
• Optional: Black sprinkles or edible glitter for decoration

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in hot coffee and blackberry puree until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour batter evenly into prepared cake pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
10. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
11. Add blackberry puree, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.
12. Add black food coloring gradually until you achieve the desired gothic black shade.
13. Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if needed.
14. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Frost the top with a generous layer of blackberry frosting.
15. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
16. Decorate with black sprinkles or edible glitter, if desired.
17. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a deeper blackberry flavor, macerate the blackberries with a little sugar for 30 minutes before pureeing. Serve chilled and enjoy!