When you crave a dessert that’s as dramatic as it is delicious, the Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake is your answer. Deeply rich chocolate velvet layers meet luscious blackberry filling and a light, creamy topping. Perfect for special occasions—or whenever you want to impress with 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 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3 large eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil (180 ml)
1 cup buttermilk (240 ml)
2 tsp 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 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (360 ml)
1/4 cup powdered sugar (30 g)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Fresh blackberries
Edible flowers
Dark chocolate shavings
Cocoa powder dusting
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8- or 9-inch cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla until combined.
Gradually fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in hot water.
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine blackberries and sugar. Cook until berries release their juices.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and lemon juice. Cook until thickened.
Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread blackberry filling evenly over it.
Top with the second cake layer. Spread whipped cream over the top and sides.
Garnish as desired with fresh blackberries, chocolate shavings, or cocoa powder.
Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing to help layers set.
Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Use room-temperature eggs and buttermilk for a smooth, even batter.
Let the blackberry filling cool completely before layering to prevent the cream from melting.
Chill the assembled cake slightly before serving to help the layers hold together.
Optional garnishes like fresh blackberries, edible flowers, or chocolate shavings add a gothic, elegant touch.