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Decadent Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake for Spooky Celebrations Recipe

4.8 from 248 reviews

This Decadent Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a rich, dark chocolate cake infused with fresh blackberry purée, perfect for spooky celebrations or gothic-themed gatherings. Featuring a moist cocoa-flavored batter layered with a creamy blackberry-infused cream cheese frosting, and adorned with fresh blackberries, edible flowers, and elegant dark chocolate shards, this cake combines a hauntingly beautiful presentation with lush, deep flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version)
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup buttermilk (or yogurt/milk with lemon juice)
  • 1 cup blackberry purée (fresh blackberries preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or vinegar)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract)
  • Gel food coloring as needed (optional)

Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened; mascarpone as alternate)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or margarine)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • Blackberry purée and vanilla extract for flavor
  • Pinch of salt

Decoration

  • Fresh blackberries as needed
  • Edible flowers (optional)
  • Blackberry glaze or dark chocolate shards

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch springform pans with butter or oil and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened dark cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring an even distribution and a light, airy batter.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, blackberry purée, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended, infusing the batter with fruity tartness.
  4. Cream Sugar and Oil: In another large bowl, cream the granulated sugar and vegetable oil together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition for a uniform batter.
  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
  6. Divide and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the two prepared springform pans, smoothing the tops. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
  7. Prepare Frosting: While the cakes cool completely, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Mix in the blackberry purée, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and powdered sugar to taste, adjusting sweetness as desired.
  8. Assemble the Cake: Level the cake tops if needed for an even stack. Place one cake layer on a serving platter, spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then add the second layer. Cover the top and sides of the cake with frosting smoothly.
  9. Decorate: Adorn the cake with fresh blackberries, drizzle with blackberry glaze or place dark chocolate shards around, and add edible flowers for a gothic, elegant appearance. Chill briefly to set the frosting before slicing.
  10. Serve: Present the cake on dark or elegant plates to enhance its dramatic effect and enjoy this decadent treat suitable for spooky celebrations or special occasions.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Use fresh blackberries for the purée and decoration to maximize flavor and visual appeal.
  • Gel food coloring is optional and can be omitted for a more natural look.
  • Adjust sugar quantities in the frosting or cake batter based on personal sweetness preferences.
  • If buttermilk is unavailable, milk mixed with lemon juice or yogurt can be used as a substitute.
  • Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened for a smooth frosting consistency.
  • Store the assembled cake refrigerated, covered, for up to 3 days for best freshness.

Keywords: Blackberry Velvet Cake, Gothic Cake, Spooky Cake, Chocolate Cake, Blackberry Frosting, Halloween Cake, Decadent Dessert