Description
A rich and dramatic layered cake infused with blackberries and dark cocoa, frosted with blackberry cream cheese frosting, and finished with a gothic flair for a luxurious dessert centerpiece.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries (pureed and strained)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup blackberry puree (for frosting)
- Fresh blackberries for garnish
- Edible gothic decorations (black sprinkles, dark chocolate shards, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Mix in blackberry puree.
- Gradually combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in hot coffee until batter is smooth and thin.
- Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in blackberry puree until fluffy.
- Layer cakes with frosting between each layer. Spread frosting over top and sides.
- Decorate with fresh blackberries, dark chocolate shards, and gothic-inspired garnishes.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Notes
- For a darker, more gothic look, add black food coloring to the frosting.
- Enhance the richness by brushing cake layers with blackberry liqueur before frosting.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but serve at room temperature for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American