Blackberry Cake

Delight in the rich flavors of Blackberry Cake, a stunning dessert that marries luscious lemon cake layers with a velvety mascarpone buttercream, fresh blackberries, and a tangy blackberry curd. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day, this cake offers a unique twist on traditional flavors. Its beautiful presentation and delightful taste make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of lemon and blackberries creates a refreshing taste experience that is both tart and sweet.
• Decadent Layers: With multiple layers of cake and filling, each slice is an indulgent treat that looks impressive but is easy to assemble.
• Versatile Occasions: This cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or simply as a delightful dessert after dinner.
• Easy to Follow: The straightforward steps make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels to create this show-stopping dessert.
• Impressive Presentation: Topped with fresh blackberries and garnished with Queen Anne’s Lace flower, it’s visually stunning as well as delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making Blackberry Cake, gather all the essential tools to streamline your baking process. Proper equipment will help ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Offset spatula
• Baking pans (round)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures fluffy batter by effectively whipping air into the mixture.
• Offset spatula: Perfect for spreading frosting evenly between layers and on the cake’s exterior.
• Baking pans (round): Essential for shaping the cake layers uniformly for even baking.

Ingredients

Delicious lemon cake layers filled with a mascarpone buttercream, fresh blackberries and blackberry curd.

For the Cake

• 2 1/4 cups cake flour (335g)
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar (235g)
• 1 tsp baking powder (heaping)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2/3 cup whole milk (160ml, room temperature)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (60ml, room temperature)
• 6 large egg whites (room temperature)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/3 cup lemon juice (80ml)
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (176g, room temperature)

For the Filling

• 6 oz blackberries
• 6 egg yolks
• 6 oz blackberry juice (strained)

For the Buttercream

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (115g, chilled)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 3 sticks unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3 cups confectioners sugar (420g)
• ½ tsp orange blossom water (optional)

For Garnish

• 8 oz mascarpone (room temperature)
• Handful of blackberries
• Queen Anne’s Lace flower

How to Make Blackberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two round baking pans by greasing them generously with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
1. Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.
2. Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the whole milk, sour cream, egg whites, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Gradually add this mixture into your dry ingredients while mixing at low speed until just combined.

Step 4: Add Butter

With the mixer running on low speed:
1. Add in the softened unsalted butter.
2. Beat until fully incorporated and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans:
1. Smooth out the tops with an offset spatula.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and let cool in pans for about 10 minutes.
2. Then carefully transfer cakes onto a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.

How to Serve Blackberry Cake

Serving your Blackberry Cake can elevate the dining experience for you and your guests. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your cake presentation and enjoyment.

Classic Pairings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the richness of the cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the tartness of blackberries.

Fruit Garnishes

• Fresh Blackberries: Scatter whole blackberries on top for an added burst of flavor and a beautiful visual.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color.

Drinks

• Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade balances the sweetness of the cake with its tangy notes.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, provides a soothing contrast to the rich layers.

How to Perfect Blackberry Cake

To ensure your Blackberry Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
• Sift Your Flour: Sifting removes lumps and aerates the flour, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for exact measurements, especially for flour and sugar, to achieve consistent results.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light one.
• Cool Layers Completely: Allow each cake layer to cool fully before stacking; this prevents melting buttercream.

Best Side Dishes for Blackberry Cake

Complement your delicious Blackberry Cake with these delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert experience.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to create a savory counterpoint to the sweet layers.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over individual slices for an indulgent touch.
4. Pistachio Crumble: Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
5. Caramel Sauce: Serve with a side of caramel sauce for those who love rich, sweet flavors.
6. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and additional blackberries for a creamy, tangy complement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking a Blackberry Cake, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing. Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake’s texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow your layers to cool completely before frosting.
• Using stale blackberries: Freshness matters! Always use ripe, fresh blackberries for the best flavor and appearance in your cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Blackberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Blackberry Cake

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Blackberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the cake with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely, and heat for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Blackberry Cake gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use frozen blackberries in my Blackberry Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to your batter.

What is the best way to decorate Blackberry Cake?

You can top your cake with fresh blackberries, edible flowers like Queen Anne’s Lace, or additional mascarpone buttercream for an elegant finish.

How long will Blackberry Cake last at room temperature?

Your Blackberry Cake can last up to 2 days at room temperature if stored properly in a cool place away from direct sunlight.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Blackberry Cake combines refreshing lemon flavors with creamy mascarpone buttercream and vibrant blackberries. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different fillings or toppings based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; you’ll enjoy its delicious taste at any occasion!