Chocolate Blackberry Layer Cake
Introduction
Chocolate Blackberry Layer Cake is a delicious dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with fresh blackberries. This cake is perfect for special occasions or just to brighten up your day. With layers of chocolate and a sweet blackberry filling, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this Chocolate Blackberry Layer Cake because it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the blackberries pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate cake. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh berries, making your dessert not only delicious but also visually appealing. Sharing this cake with family and friends is a great way to create wonderful memories.
How to Make Chocolate Blackberry Layer Cake
Making Chocolate Blackberry Layer Cake is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this tasty treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1 cup hot water
- 3 cups blackberries
- 1/4 cup sugar (for filling)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 5 egg whites (for buttercream)
- 1 1/4 cups sugar (for buttercream)
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp blackberry jam
- 2 oz dark chocolate (for ganache)
- 2 oz heavy cream (for ganache)
Directions:
- Cook the blackberries, 1/4 cup sugar, and lemon juice in a pot until it reduces down. Strain this mixture and let it cool.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, vanilla, and hot water. Mix well.
- Divide the cake batter evenly into three cake pans. Bake at 325°F for about 30 minutes. Let them cool completely once done.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the buttercream. Beat the egg whites and 1 1/4 cups sugar until fluffy. Gradually add in the unsalted butter and fold in the blackberry jam.
- Once the cakes have cooled, assemble the layers. Spread the buttercream and blackberry filling between each layer.
- For the ganache, melt the dark chocolate with heavy cream together. Pour this over the top of the assembled cake.
- Decorate the cake with chocolate whipped cream and fresh blackberries.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy!
How to Serve Chocolate Blackberry Layer Cake
This cake is best served at room temperature. You can slice it into generous pieces and place it on dessert plates. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or some whipped cream on the side would make it even more delightful!
How to Store Chocolate Blackberry Layer Cake
To store any leftover cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake by wrapping it in plastic and placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to two months.
Tips to Make Chocolate Blackberry Layer Cake
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- Reduce the blackberry filling to your desired sweetness and thickness.
- You can use a gel or preserve instead of fresh blackberries for a more stable filling.
- Ensure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
Variation
If you want a different flavor, you can substitute the blackberry filling with raspberry, strawberry, or any berry of your choice. You can also add nuts for a crunchy texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen blackberries?
A: Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess water before using them in the filling.
Q: How can I make the cake more chocolaty?
A: You can increase the amount of cocoa powder in the recipe or add chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolate flavor.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just frost it right before serving for the best taste.
