Indulge in the rich, luxurious flavors of the Dark Romance Chocolate Blackberry Cake. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic evening, this decadent dessert combines the luscious tang of blackberries with the deep, sumptuous taste of dark chocolate. This recipe offers a beautiful balance of fruit and chocolate, making it a stunning centerpiece that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 and 1/2 cups fresh blackberries
For the Berry Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 cup pureed blackberries (strain to remove seeds)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
For Decoration:
- Fresh blackberries, raspberries, elderberries
- Optional: edible flowers
Directions:
Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth. Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined.
- Gently fold in the fresh blackberries.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Berry Buttercream:
- Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low until combined. Increase to high and beat until fluffy.
- Add the blackberry puree and vanilla, beating until the frosting is smooth and evenly colored.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- Heat the cream until it just begins to simmer, then pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Let cool until it thickens slightly but can still be poured.
Assemble the Cake:
- Trim the tops of the cakes if needed to level them. Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread with berry buttercream. Top with the second cake layer.
- Frost the outside of the cake with a thin layer of the berry buttercream for the crumb coat. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Apply a final thicker layer of berry buttercream. Smooth and level the frosting.
- Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, allowing some to drip down the sides.
- Decorate with fresh berries and optional edible flowers.
Notes and FAQs:
- Substitutions: You can substitute frozen blackberries for fresh ones in the cake batter if out of season, but make sure they are thawed and drained well.
- Storage: This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serving Suggestion: Allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Conclusion
The Dark Romance Chocolate Blackberry Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds, but a feast for the eyes. Its combination of elegant flavors and textures makes it an unforgettable dessert that’s bound to impress. Whether celebrating love, an anniversary, or simply in the mood for something special, this cake is sure to captivate and charm anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy crafting this beautiful, delicious masterpiece!
