Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a showstopper that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, blending rich flavors with a dark and dramatic look. You’ll love how the deep blackberry flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting, creating a dessert that’s both sweet and slightly tangy. Its striking dark color makes it a centerpiece at any gathering, sure to wow your friends and family. With simple steps and familiar ingredients, it’s easy to recreate, even for beginner bakers. Plus, the surprise of the vibrant blackberry swirl inside adds an extra touch of magic to every slice.

Recipe

The Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a striking dessert that combines rich flavors with a dramatic appearance, perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp black gel food coloring
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups fresh blackberries
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup blackberry puree

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix oil, buttermilk, eggs, black gel food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
5. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and blackberry puree until fluffy.
6. Assemble the cake by spreading frosting between layers and on top, garnishing with fresh blackberries.

Notes: Use gel food coloring for a deeper black hue. Adjust frosting consistency with milk if needed.

Time: Prep: 30 minutes, Cooking: 30 minutes, Total: 1 hour

Serving: 12 slices

Calories: Approximately 550 per slice

Cuisine: Dessert

Nutrition

Understanding the nutritional content of a Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake helps in making informed dietary choices. Below is the detailed nutritional breakdown per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a tangy lemon sorbet to balance its rich flavors. For drinks, I’d suggest a glass of sparkling rosé or a warm cup of Earl Grey tea to complement its dark, fruity notes. These pairings make the cake feel even more special, like a treat for any occasion.

Complementary Desserts

When I’m serving a rich Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake, I like to pair it with desserts that balance its deep, fruity flavors. Chocolate pairings, like dark chocolate truffles or a silky mousse, add a luxurious contrast to the cake’s tangy sweetness. For fruit accompaniments, I often go with a light citrus sorbet or a fresh berry compote to brighten the plate. Sometimes, I’ll even serve a simple vanilla panna cotta topped with a drizzle of blackberry sauce. These choices keep the dessert spread interesting without overpowering the star of the show—the cake itself.

Beverage Pairings

A great beverage pairing can elevate the experience of enjoying a rich Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake, making it even more memorable. I love sipping on blackberry tea with this dessert—its fruity notes complement the cake’s deep berry flavor perfectly. If I’m in the mood for something bolder, a glass of red wine, like a smooth Merlot, adds a sophisticated touch. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling blackberry lemonade brings a revitalizing contrast. Each drink enhances the cake’s richness without overpowering it. Experimenting with these pairings has become one of my favorite parts of serving this indulgent treat.