Dark, dramatic, and beautifully rich, this Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is a dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better. The cake has a soft velvet chocolate crumb, a glossy blackberry filling, and a light whipped cream topping that balances all the deep flavors. Perfect for celebrations, themed parties, or anytime you want a show-stopping dessert.
2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g)
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300 g)
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (75 g)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil (180 ml)
1 cup buttermilk (240 ml)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup hot water (120 ml)
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries (225 g)
1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 g)
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (360 ml)
1/4 cup powdered sugar (30 g)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh blackberries
Edible flowers
Dark chocolate shavings
Cocoa powder dusting
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Stir in the hot water—the batter will be thin, which is normal.
Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then move to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a saucepan, cook blackberries and sugar over medium heat until berries begin releasing juices.
Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and lemon juice.
Continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
Remove from heat and let cool completely.
In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Keep chilled until ready to use.
Place one cooled cake layer on a plate.
Spread an even layer of blackberry filling over the top.
Add the second cake layer.
Spread the whipped cream topping on top (or cover the whole cake if preferred).
Add optional garnishes like blackberries, flowers, or chocolate shavings.
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better rise.
If using frozen blackberries, do not thaw—they thicken better.
Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing for neat layers.
For deeper flavor, add 1 teaspoon espresso powder to the dry ingredients.
Want a darker gothic look? Dust lightly with cocoa powder or add dark chocolate curls.