As I stood in the kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of warm chocolate and ripe blackberries, a little voice inside urged me to recreate a dessert worthy of celebration. That’s when I crafted this Chocolate Blackberry Cake, a perfect fusion of rich, moist cake layered with decadent blackberry cream cheese frosting. Not only is it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, but it’s also a delightful balance of indulgence and freshness, ensuring that every bite refreshes your palate. This cake is a true crowd-pleaser, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor that’s sure to impress even the most discerning dessert lovers. Are you ready to infuse your next occasion with a slice of sweetness? Let’s dive in! Why is this cake a must-try? Indulgent, Flavorful Layers: Each bite of this Chocolate Blackberry Cake is a harmonious blend of rich chocolate and tangy blackberry, creating a mouthwatering experience. Moist and Tender: The carefully selected ingredients, including fresh blackberries and Greek yogurt, ensure a cake that is incredibly moist and tender throughout. Stunning Presentation: With its swirled blackberry cream cheese frosting, this cake doubles as a beautiful centerpiece for any celebration or gathering. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at parties, your guests will be begging for seconds and asking for the recipe! Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. Versatile Options: Don’t hesitate to swap in different berries or frostings to suit your taste, making this cake as unique as your celebrations. Discover other delightful combinations like in the Decadent Chocolate Peanut or the rich Chocolate Eclairs Discover. Chocolate Blackberry Cake Ingredients • Get ready for a delightful baking adventure! For the Cake Cake & Pastry Flour – Provides structure and tenderness; all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; no direct substitute suggested for this recipe. Powdered Sugar – Essential for the frosting; ensures it has the smooth texture you desire. Cocoa Powder – Delivers a rich chocolate flavor; opt for Dutch-processed for a deeper taste. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents help the cake rise beautifully; ensure they are fresh for the best results. Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the cake. Eggs – Provides moisture and structure to the cake; no substitution recommended. Blackberries – Key for flavor and decoration; fresh is best but frozen can work in a pinch. Neutral Flavored Oil (Vegetable, Canola, etc.) – Keeps the cake moist; avoid olive oil due to its distinct flavor. Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream – Adds moisture to the cake; plain yogurt is a good substitute. Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; no substitutions are recommended here. Water – Use boiling water to make the cake fudgy and delicious; this should be hot when mixed in. For the Blackberry Jam Cornstarch – Thickens the blackberry jam; arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute if needed. For the Frosting Cream Cheese – Must be block-style for the frosting; spreadable varieties won’t yield the same results. Butter – Adds flavor and stability to the frosting; opt for unsalted for better control over salt levels. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Blackberry Cake Step 1: Prepare Baking Pans Start by greasing two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or oil, ensuring a non-stick surface. Next, line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the rest of the ingredients to get ready for baking your Chocolate Blackberry Cake. Step 2: Make Blackberry Puree Wash and stem fresh blackberries, then place them in a blender. Blend until smooth, creating a rich blackberry puree. If you prefer a seedless option, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve. Set aside about ½ cup for the frosting to enhance the flavor of your decadent dessert later. Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of cake and pastry flour, ¾ cup of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This combination creates the perfect foundation for your moist Chocolate Blackberry Cake. Make sure there are no lumps in the dry ingredients for even mixing. Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, combine the blackberry puree, 1½ cups of granulated sugar, 3 large eggs, ¾ cup of neutral oil, 1 cup of Greek yogurt, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated, creating a lovely mixture that will bring moisture and flavor to the cake layers. Step 5: Incorporate Hot Water Carefully whisk in 1 cup of boiling water into the wet ingredients mixture. This step is crucial as the hot water will create a thin batter, resulting in a gooey, fudgy texture once baked. Stir until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and airy. Step 6: Bake Layers Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your cakes; they should be puffed up and slightly pulling away from the edges of the pans, indicating they are done. Step 7: Cool Cakes Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges and invert the cakes onto wire racks to cool completely. This step ensures the texture remains moist and perfect for assembling your Chocolate Blackberry Cake. Step 8: Prepare Blackberry Jam In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of fresh blackberries and ½ cup of granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir until the berries break down, then create a cornstarch slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed in 2 tablespoons of water. Add this to the blackberry mix, cooking until thickened. This jam layer will elevate the flavor of your cake. Step 9: Make Frosting In a mixing bowl, cream together 8 ounces of block-style cream cheese and ½ cup of unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add in 3-4 cups of powdered sugar and a pinch of salt, mixing well until the frosting is fluffy and creamy. This delicious frosting will beautifully complement your Chocolate Blackberry Cake. Step 10: Color Frosting Fold in the reserved blackberry puree into your frosting, creating a gorgeous swirled effect. You can achieve either a marbled or solid pink hue, depending on how you mix it. This vibrant frosting will add both color and flavor, making your cake truly eye-catching. Step 11: Assemble Cake Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top, then drizzle some blackberry jam. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides generously with the blackberry cream cheese frosting, creating a beautiful finish for your decadent Chocolate Blackberry Cake. Step 12: Chill and Serve For better slicing, chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. This allows the frosting to set up nicely. Once ready, slice and serve your Chocolate Blackberry Cake to delight your family and friends with a truly exquisite dessert experience! Expert Tips for Chocolate Blackberry Cake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature. This promotes even mixing and a smoother texture. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh blackberries for the best flavor in your cake and frosting. While frozen can work, they may alter the cake’s texture. Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the tender, moist Chocolate Blackberry Cake you want. Proper Cooling: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautifully layered dessert. Chill for Slicing: For a clean cut, chill the assembled cake for about 20 minutes before slicing. This helps the frosting set and makes serving easier. Make Ahead Options These Chocolate Blackberry Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance and keep them covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain their moisture. The blackberry jam can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 1 week. To finish the cake, simply whip up the frosting and assemble it as directed, ensuring the cake is chilled for about 20 minutes before slicing. This way, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready to impress without all the last-minute stress! Chocolate Blackberry Cake Variations Feel free to customize the flavors and textures of your Chocolate Blackberry Cake to suit your unique taste and dietary needs! Berry Swap: Raspberries work beautifully instead of blackberries for a slightly tangy twist. Their vibrant color also adds a lovely touch! Gluten-Free Flour: Gluten-Free flour can be used in place of cake and pastry flour, making this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check for a blend that mimics traditional flour’s texture. Dairy-Free Frosting: Coconut Cream can be substituted for cream cheese to create a luscious vegan frosting. Whip it with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla for a delightful alternative! Flavor Twist: Espresso Powder in the batter can enhance the chocolate flavor. Just a teaspoon added in will bring depth to your cake. Spiced Addition: Cinnamon or Nutmeg can be added to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor. These spices pair wonderfully with chocolate and berry. Add Nuts: Chopped Walnuts or Pecans can be sprinkled in the batter or used as a topping for added crunch and a nutty flavor. Chocolate Ganache: Try using a Chocolate Ganache for frosting instead of cream cheese. This richer option takes the decadence to a whole new level! Layer It Up: Create a Mason Jar Cake by layering cake, jam, and frosting in individual jars for a fun and portable dessert option. No matter how you choose to adapt this recipe, it’s bound to be delicious! And if you’re looking for other delightful desserts, check out the Sourdough Coffee Cake or indulge in some Bourbon Peach Cake. Happy baking! What to Serve with Blackberry Chocolate Cake Imagine a sweet gathering where the rich chocolate flavors of cake are perfectly complemented by delightful side dishes and an inviting drink. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy, cool contrast to the rich, chocolatey layers of the cake. The combination creates a heavenly dessert experience. Fresh Berry Salad: A mix of seasonal berries with a hint of mint brightens the palate and echoes the blackberries within the cake, making each bite burst with freshness. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fruits, marshmallows, or cake pieces into warm, luscious chocolate for an extra indulgent experience that tie in beautifully with the dessert’s flavors. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the moist cake without overpowering its rich taste. Mint Tea: A soothing drink that provides a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate between bites of decadent cake. Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavor of coffee enhances the chocolate notes, providing a delightful end to your meal and pairing beautifully with the cake’s richness. Lemon Sorbet: The bright tartness of lemon sorbet acts as a refreshing palate cleanser between each rich slice of cake, delighting your taste buds. Chocolate-Covered Almonds: A small, crunchy snack that adds a delightful texture contrast to the moist cake layers while reinforcing the chocolate theme in your dessert table. How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Blackberry Cake Fridge: Store the assembled cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This keeps the moistness and allows the flavors to mingle beautifully. Freezer: If you want to keep the cake longer, individual layers can be wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When serving frozen layers, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight. For a quick refresh, gently warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until soft. Leftover Frosting: Any remaining blackberry cream cheese frosting can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, ready for a future dessert delight! Chocolate Blackberry Cake Recipe FAQs What type of blackberries should I use? Absolutely, fresh blackberries are best for this recipe! They provide the optimal flavor and texture. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen blackberries, but be aware they may change the cake’s texture slightly. Look for berries that are plump, firm, and vibrant in color. How can I store my Chocolate Blackberry Cake? For the best flavor and texture, keep your assembled cake covered in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 1 week. Make sure it’s wrapped well to protect it from other odors in the fridge, and try to allow the flavors to meld together, making each slice even tastier! Can I freeze Chocolate Blackberry Cake? Absolutely! To freeze your cake layers, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, ensuring no air can get in. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. This helps maintain moisture and texture. What if my cake layers dome up while baking? Don’t worry if your cake layers dome up! It’s a common occurrence. You can level them by carefully slicing off the dome with a serrated knife after they’ve cooled. This will create a flat surface for frosting and stacking, ensuring a beautifully assembled Chocolate Blackberry Cake. Is there a gluten-free option for this cake? Very much so! You can easily swap regular cake flour for a gluten-free flour blend in this Chocolate Blackberry Cake recipe. Be sure to look for a blend designed for baking, as it will typically include stabilizers that help recreate the structure of traditional flour. Enjoy a gluten-free option without compromising on taste! How can I make the frosting smoother? To achieve a silky-smooth frosting, make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. If your frosting is too stiff, you can beat in a little milk or cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. This is a great tip for getting that perfect spreadable, luscious frosting for your Chocolate Blackberry Cake! Decadent Chocolate Blackberry Cake for Berry Lovers This Chocolate Blackberry Cake combines rich chocolate with tangy blackberry for a delicious and moist dessert that's perfect for celebrations. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake2 cups Cake & Pastry Flour All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute.1 cup Granulated Sugar No direct substitute suggested.3-4 cups Powdered Sugar Essential for frosting.¾ cup Cocoa Powder Opt for Dutch-processed for deeper flavor.2 teaspoons Baking Powder Ensure it is fresh.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Ensure it is fresh.½ teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.3 large Eggs No substitution recommended.1 cup Blackberries Fresh is best.¾ cup Neutral Flavored Oil Avoid olive oil.1 cup Greek Yogurt Plain yogurt is a good substitute.2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract No substitutions recommended.1 cup Water Use boiling water for a fudgy texture.For the Blackberry Jam1 tablespoon Cornstarch Arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute.For the Frosting8 ounces Cream Cheese Block-style is required.½ cup Butter Opt for unsalted. Equipment 9-inch round cake pansBlenderMixing bowlsWhiskspatulameasuring cupsmeasuring spoonsOvenparchment paper Method PreparationStart by greasing two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or oil, then line with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).Wash and stem fresh blackberries, then blend into a smooth puree. Strain for a seedless option and reserve ½ cup for frosting.Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl.In another bowl, mix blackberry puree with sugar, eggs, oil, yogurt, and vanilla until well combined.Whisk in boiling water, forming a thin batter.Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until toothpick comes out clean.Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto racks to cool completely.Blackberry Jam & FrostingIn a saucepan, cook blackberries and sugar over medium heat until the berries break down. Add cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened.Cream cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually mix in powdered sugar and a pinch of salt.Fold reserved blackberry puree into the frosting for color and flavor.Assembling the CakeLayer one cake on a plate, frost the top with a thin layer, and drizzle with blackberry jam. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides.Chill the assembled cake for 20 minutes for better slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesUse room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture. Always opt for fresh blackberries for the best flavor. Chill the cake for easier slicing. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
