Blueberry Blackberry Chocolate Layer Cake

Imagine sinking your fork into a moist chocolate cake bursting with fresh blueberries and blackberries. The Blueberry Blackberry Chocolate Layer Cake is not just a delightful treat; it is a perfect dessert for any occasion. This cake combines the richness of chocolate, the tartness of berries, and the smoothness of cream cheese frosting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends alike.

Why Make This Recipe

Why should you try your hand at making this beautiful layer cake? First, it’s a perfect balance of flavors. Chocolate lovers will enjoy the rich cocoa flavor, while fruit lovers will appreciate the juicy bursts of blueberries and blackberries. Second, it’s a stunning cake to serve at parties or special occasions. The vibrant colors from the berries and the smooth frosting create an eye-catching dessert. Lastly, making this cake allows you to showcase your baking skills and enjoy a homemade treat that feels fancy, but is surprisingly easy to prepare.

How to Make Blueberry Blackberry Chocolate Layer Cake

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup hot coffee
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup fresh blueberry puree
1/2 cup fresh blackberry puree
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup fresh blueberry puree
1/2 cup fresh blackberry puree
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water
Fresh blueberries
Fresh blackberries
Fresh mint leaves

Directions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Add the hot coffee and whisk until the batter is smooth.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Once baked, let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the berry compote, cook the blueberries, blackberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan until the berries break down. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the mixture.
To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Then mix in the berry purees and whipped cream until combined.
Assemble the cake by placing one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the berry compote over it. Add a third of the frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top, add the remaining berry compote, and finish with the rest of the frosting. Chill the assembled cake in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
For the glaze, combine the remaining berry purees and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat and thicken it using the cornstarch slurry.
Once the cake has chilled, pour the glaze over it and garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves.

How to Serve Blueberry Blackberry Chocolate Layer Cake

Serve your cake chilled and cut it into generous slices. You can garnish each plate with additional fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a decorative touch. This cake pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

How to Store Blueberry Blackberry Chocolate Layer Cake

Store any leftovers in the fridge. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the individual cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, which can last for up to three months.

Tips to Make Blueberry Blackberry Chocolate Layer Cake

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.
Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
The berry compote can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the cake.
For a fun twist, try adding a splash of orange zest to the berry compote for extra flavor.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with different fruits! You can use raspberries, strawberries, or even a mix of your favorite berries. You could also replace the chocolate cake with vanilla or lemon cake for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake layers and the berry compote a day or two in advance. Store them properly until you are ready to assemble and serve.

2. Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen berries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before using in the compote.

3. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a substitute for buttermilk by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

Enjoy creating this delicious Blueberry Blackberry Chocolate Layer Cake, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of heaven!