Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake
The Perfect Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake Recipe
Introduction
Indulge in the ultimate fusion of rich dark chocolate and juicy blackberries with this Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake. This decadent dessert brings together deep, intense chocolate flavors balanced by the sweet and slightly tart blackberries, making it an irresistible treat for any chocolate lover. Whether for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a special weekend bake, this cake is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake
- Rich & Moist – The perfect balance of dense, moist chocolate cake and juicy blackberries.
- Easy to Make – No complicated techniques, just simple steps for an impressive dessert.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for celebrations, holidays, or casual gatherings.
- Natural Fruit Sweetness – Blackberries enhance the chocolate’s richness without overpowering it.
Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake
Cake Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Cocoa powder (unsweetened) | ¾ cup |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Dark chocolate (melted) | ½ cup |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ½ cups |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Vanilla extract | 2 tsp |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Fresh blackberries (chopped) | 1 cup |
Blackberry Filling Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups fresh blackberries
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Dark Chocolate Ganache Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate (chopped)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake
Step 1 – Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and melted dark chocolate.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in chopped blackberries gently.
Step 2 – Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3 – Make the Blackberry Filling
- In a saucepan, combine blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Let cool before using as filling.
Step 4 – Prepare the Dark Chocolate Ganache
- Heat heavy cream until just simmering.
- Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
- Stir until smooth, then mix in butter.
Step 5 – Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread blackberry filling evenly over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and pour warm ganache over the cake.
- Let the ganache set for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh blackberries for an elegant touch.
Tips for the Best Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake
✔ Use high-quality dark chocolate for intense flavor.
✔ Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake soft and fluffy.
✔ Let the cake cool completely before assembling to prevent melting.
✔ Use fresh blackberries for the best taste and texture.
✔ For a richer ganache, add an extra tablespoon of butter.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Option
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking mix.
Vegan Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake
- Use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk.
- Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Cupcake Version
- Follow the same recipe but bake in a muffin tin for 18-20 minutes.
How to Store & Serve Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for 4-5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a glass of red wine for an elegant dessert.
- Drizzle extra ganache over slices for added richness.
Nutrition Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Sugar | 30g |
| Fiber | 3g |
FAQs About Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake
Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes! Thaw them first and drain excess liquid before adding to the batter.
Why is my cake dry?
Overbaking or too much flour can cause dryness. Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake layers a day in advance and assemble when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
Conclusion
This Dark Chocolate Blackberry Cake is the ultimate combination of rich chocolate and fresh fruit, creating a dessert that’s elegant, indulgent, and unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and let us know how it turned out in the comments!
