Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake Recipe

Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake

This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a show-stopping treat that merges the deep richness of dark chocolate with the tart sweetness of blackberries. Moist, velvet-textured layers are sandwiched with luscious blackberry compote and enrobed in a dark chocolate ganache. A crown of fresh berries and edible flowers gives it a moody, romantic finish—perfect for dramatic dessert lovers.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)

• 1 ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup buttermilk

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¾ cup hot brewed coffee (or hot water)

Blackberry Compote Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries

• ½ cup sugar

• 2 tsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water

Dark Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 8 oz dark chocolate (60–70%), chopped

• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Make the Cake:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

• Add eggs, sour cream, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.

• Slowly pour in hot coffee and mix until combined.

• Divide batter between pans and bake 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

2. Prepare Blackberry Compote:

• In a saucepan, combine blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.

• Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Let cool.

3. Make the Ganache:

• Heat cream until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.

• Stir until smooth, then add butter for a glossy finish. Cool slightly before using.

4. Assemble:

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread blackberry compote over the top.

• Place second layer on top. Pour ganache over the entire cake, letting it drip down the sides.

• Chill until set.

5. Decorate (Optional but Stunning):

• Top with fresh blackberries, dark chocolate curls, edible flowers (like violets or pansies), and a dusting of edible gold or silver dust for that gothic glam touch.

Tips:

• Use black cocoa for an ultra-dark aesthetic.

• Add a splash of blackberry liqueur (like crème de mûre) to the compote for an adult twist.

• Great for Halloween, gothic-themed parties, or just when you’re feeling dark and delicious.