Alright, amiga! Let me tell you, I’ve been wrestling with a cake recipe that’s been living rent-free in my head, and I finally cracked the code. Get ready for the Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake! This isn’t your grandma’s dessert; it’s a statement. We’re talking deep, dark, intensely flavored cake that’s as stunning to look at as it is to devour.
I knew I had to nail this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake. I wanted to create a masterpiece worthy of the Cuba Queen name – and trust me, this one brings the drama.
I wanted to capture the essence of dark romance in a dessert, the kind of cake that makes you feel like you’re starring in your own gothic novel. And let me tell you, after countless attempts, I’ve finally unlocked the secret to this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake! I’m bursting to share the recipe with you.
This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake? It’s everything I stand for, distilled into a single, decadent slice. Think of it: bold, unexpected flavors, a touch of mystery, and a whole lotta attitude. This cake is not for the faint of heart.
Forget those boring beige desserts. I’m talking about a Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake that will make your tastebuds sing. This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is about to become your new obsession. So grab your apron, turn up the music, and let’s get started!
INGREDIENTS You Need for This
This ingredient list for the Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is SHORT but mighty! Don’t let the simplicity fool you – each element plays a crucial role in achieving that signature gothic vibe.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our masterpiece.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: For the perfect touch of sweetness.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: This is what gives us that rich, dark color and chocolatey depth.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise to dramatic heights.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors.
- 1 cup buttermilk: The secret to that incredibly moist, velvet texture. Trust me on this one!
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and prevents it from drying out.
- 2 large eggs: Binds everything together and adds richness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: A must for any good cake, but feel free to use a high-quality extract for a more pronounced flavor.
- 1 cup boiling water: This is the magic ingredient that activates the cocoa powder and creates a super moist cake.
- 2 teaspoons black food coloring: Here’s where the “gothic” comes in! Gel food coloring is best for the darkest, most intense color.
- 1 (12 ounce) jar blackberry preserves: The star of the show! Use a good quality preserve with plenty of whole berries for the best flavor and texture.
For the frosting:
- 2 cups (4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The base of our creamy, dreamy frosting.
- 6 cups powdered sugar: For sweetness and structure.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds richness and makes the frosting extra smooth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
Splurge on the blackberry preserves for this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake ingredient, trust me! You’ll find the best black food coloring for this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake at specialty baking shops or online.
Now, let’s get this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake party started!
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Here’s where most people mess up their Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake – but not you! I’m going to guide you through every step with confidence.
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Pro tip for Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake perfection: line the bottoms with parchment paper circles for easy release!
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Don’t stress – your Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is going to be incredible.
- Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. In my kitchen, this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake takes exactly 35 minutes to bake, so stay close!
- Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. This is where your Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake transforms into pure magic.
- The Secret Ingredient: Carefully pour the boiling water into the batter and mix until smooth. The batter will be thin. This is normal!
- Black Magic: Stir in the black food coloring until you reach your desired level of gothic darkness. Remember, a little goes a long way!
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake should look dark and rich.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frosting Time: While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract and beat until the frosting is light and airy.
- Assemble: Once the cakes are completely cool, level them with a serrated knife if necessary. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread with half of the blackberry preserves. Top with half of the frosting. Repeat with the second cake layer, the remaining preserves, and the remaining frosting.
- Gothic Glam: Get creative with your decorating! You can pipe swirls, rosettes, or even drizzles of melted chocolate.
While your Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! This Blackberry Gothic Cake Recipe is all about getting dark and dramatic!
PRESENTATION
People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake at Halloween parties. I garnish it with sugared blackberries and a dusting of edible glitter for extra drama.
For maximum impact, serve this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake on a dark, moody platter. Think slate or black marble.
This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake absolutely slays at dinner parties! It’s a showstopper that’s guaranteed to spark conversation.
For a perfect pairing, try serving this Dark velvet blackberry cake with a glass of chilled port or a strong black coffee. The richness of the cake is beautifully balanced by the intensity of these beverages.
Got leftovers? Crumble the cake and mix it with whipped cream for a decadent parfait. Or, use it as a base for a trifle with layers of custard and berries. The seasonal Black velvet blackberry cake variations I’ve tried all kill.
This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake reminds me of another flavor explosion: Mini Banana Pudding Cheesecakes!
FAQs
Can I make this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake spicier?Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cake batter or frosting for a subtle kick. I’ve tested it, and it’s a flavor bomb!
What if I don’t have buttermilk for my Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake?No problem! You can make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I know when my Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is perfectly done?A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean. The edges of the cake should also be slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan. My experience is that if you gently press the top of the Black velvet blackberry cake, it should spring back easily.
Can I use a different type of berry preserve in this Gothic blackberry dessert?Of course! Raspberry, cherry, or even fig preserves would be delicious alternatives. Get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors!
How do I prevent my Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake from drying out?Make sure not to overbake the cake. Also, wrapping the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating them before frosting can help retain moisture. This is a pro tip I’ve used for years!
Can I make this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake ahead of time?Yes! The cake layers can be baked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring the frosting to room temperature before using. The blackberry velvet gothic cake can be prepared ahead of time and stored.
Is there a budget-friendly alternative?Yes! You can try different brands of blackberry preserves to find one that fits your budget without sacrificing too much flavor. Community feedback has been amazing on which types taste best.
Is there a sugar substitute to use to lower the sugar content?Yes! You can use stevia or erythritol but make sure to adjust the amounts so it is to your liking and does not become too bitter. We have tested this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake with substitutes.
Remember, amiga, even if your first attempt isn’t perfect, don’t give up! Every baking adventure is a learning experience.
If this recipe rocks your world, you NEED to try my Raspberry White Chocolate Cake Roll!
CONCLUSION
This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s about embracing the drama, the unexpected, and the sheer joy of creating something beautiful and delicious. It represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, unapologetic indulgence, and a whole lotta fun in the kitchen. You can even share it on my Facebook page at Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake Hey, everybody. This is a follow up.
Here are My Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake Power Tips:
- Use gel food coloring: For the most intense black color.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting: Otherwise, the frosting will melt.
I’ve even created variations on this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake that you have to try!
- Blackberry Lavender Gothic Cake: Infuse the frosting with lavender for a floral twist.
- Spiced Blackberry Gothic Cake: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Blackberry Chocolate Chip Gothic Cake: Fold in chocolate chips for extra decadence.
The Blackberry Chocolate Chip Gothic Cake version gets the biggest reactions every time! I got inspiration when I saw a Chocolate Blackberry Elegantly Gothic Halloween Cake – Domestic …!
I have complete confidence that you’re going to create a Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake masterpiece that will blow everyone away. I encourage you to make this your signature dish, play with the flavors, and let your creativity shine. Share your creations with the world and make some flavor memories! Join the group at My daughter’s gift to me Four layer red velvet with cream cheese ….
Go on, amiga! Create a Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake that reflects your unique style and flavor preferences. I can’t wait to see (and taste!) what you come up with. Let me know how it goes, and don’t forget to tag me in your creations! And for more bold flavor adventures, check out Butternut Squash Pancakes!
Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake
Indulge in this decadent Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake, featuring layers of rich, dark chocolate cake infused with blackberry flavor and a striking gothic-inspired design. Perfect for special occasions or adding a touch of drama to your dessert spread.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee
- 1 cup blackberry puree
- 1 batch blackberry buttercream frosting (recipe follows)
- Black food coloring gel
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in hot coffee and blackberry puree. The batter will be thin.
- Pour batter evenly into prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- While cakes are cooling, prepare blackberry buttercream frosting.
- Once cakes are completely cool, level them if necessary.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Frost with a layer of blackberry buttercream.
- Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
- Add black food coloring gel to small portions of the remaining buttercream and use a piping bag to decorate with gothic-inspired details.
Notes
For a more intense blackberry flavor, consider adding a blackberry liquor to the frosting. Serve chilled and enjoy!