Blackberry Cake

Blackberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines layers of lemon cake with creamy mascarpone buttercream and fresh blackberries. This cake is perfect for any gathering, be it a birthday party or a summer picnic. Its vibrant flavors and stunning presentation make it a standout choice for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying with friends and family. The combination of zesty lemon and luscious blackberries creates a cake that is as refreshing as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Fresh Flavors: The zesty lemon combined with sweet blackberries creates a refreshing taste that pleases the palate.
• Impressive Presentation: This naked cake looks stunning on any table, making it ideal for celebrations.
• Customizable Layers: You can adjust the fillings and toppings according to your preference, giving you versatility in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this gorgeous dessert without stress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or an elegant dinner party, this cake fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Blackberry Cake effectively, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking process goes smoothly and results in a perfectly baked cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Offset spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ideal for whipping egg whites and mixing batter efficiently, ensuring a fluffy texture.
• Offset spatula: Perfect for spreading frosting evenly over the layers, helping create that beautiful naked cake look.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking; these help ensure perfect results every time.

Ingredients

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

For the Cake Layers

• 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 Blackberry Filling

• 6 oz blackberries
• 6 egg yolks
• 6 oz blackberries (80ml strained)

For the Mascarpone 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)
• 8 oz mascarpone (room temperature)

For Garnish

• Handful of blackberries
• Queen Anne’s Lace flower

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How to Make Blackberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and rises properly.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Pans

Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Cake flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Baking powder
4. Kosher salt

This mixture will form the foundation of your cake layers.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
1. Whole milk
2. Sour cream
3. Egg whites
4. Lemon zest
5. Lemon juice

Whisk until smooth before adding to dry ingredients.

Step 5: Blend Ingredients Together

Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed with your stand mixer until just combined.

Step 6: Add Butter

Slowly add in softened unsalted butter to the batter until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 7: Bake Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

Step 8: Cool Cakes

Let cakes cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Blackberry Filling

While cakes cool, prepare blackberry filling by simmering strained blackberries with egg yolks over low heat until thickened.

Step 10: Make Mascarpone Buttercream

In your stand mixer, beat together room temperature butter and mascarpone until creamy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar until desired consistency is reached.

Step 11: Assemble Cake

Layer cooled cakes with blackberry filling and mascarpone buttercream in between each layer. Frost the top and sides lightly for that naked effect.

Step 12: Garnish & Serve

Top your finished Blackberry Cake with fresh blackberries and edible flowers like Queen Anne’s Lace for decoration before slicing and serving!

How to Serve Blackberry Cake

Serving your Blackberry Cake can elevate any gathering, making it a delightful centerpiece. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance this delicious dessert.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Add a mix of fresh blackberries and raspberries on the side for a burst of flavor and color.

Drizzle with Lemon Glaze

• A simple lemon glaze can add a zesty touch that complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.

Garnish with Whipped Cream

• Lightly whipped cream can provide a creamy contrast and make each slice even more indulgent.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or lemon ice cream pairs perfectly with the layers of Blackberry Cake, adding a cool element to each bite.

Create Dessert Plates

• Serve individual slices on elegant plates, garnished with a sprig of mint for an extra pop of color.

Offer Tea or Coffee Pairings

• A warm cup of tea or coffee can enhance the tasting experience, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings.

How to Perfect Blackberry Cake

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

• Choose ripe blackberries: Using fresh, ripe blackberries will enhance the flavor and sweetness of your cake.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugar can make a big difference in the texture of your cake.
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and mascarpone are at room temperature for better mixing and aeration.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to maintain a light and fluffy texture in your cake layers.
• Use an oven thermometer: This will help you ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect cake layers every time.

Best Side Dishes for Blackberry Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Blackberry Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Lemon Sorbet: Refreshing and citrusy, lemon sorbet cleanses the palate between bites.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits enhances the fruity notes in the cake and adds freshness.
3. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses pairs nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
4. Chocolate Truffles: Rich chocolate truffles offer a decadent contrast to the lightness of the blackberry layers.
5. Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti provides texture and complements the creamy mascarpone buttercream.
6. Mini Pastries: Assorted mini pastries can create an elegant dessert spread alongside your cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a perfect Blackberry Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the cake’s texture. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep your Blackberry Cake light and fluffy.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar, to ensure consistent results.
• Skipping the lemon zest: This ingredient adds essential flavor. Don’t omit it; instead, use fresh zest for a bright, citrusy kick in your cake.
• Underbaking the layers: Ensure your cake layers are fully baked before removing them from the oven. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Blackberry Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for about 3-5 days.

Freezing Blackberry Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Blackberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through, which takes about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Blackberry Cake special?

This Blackberry Cake combines lemon flavors with rich mascarpone buttercream, making it both refreshing and indulgent.

Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to avoid excess moisture in your cake.

How can I customize my Blackberry Cake?

You can add different fruits like raspberries or strawberries or experiment with flavored extracts such as vanilla or almond to create your unique twist.

How do I know when my Blackberry Cake is done baking?

Your cake is done when it springs back lightly when touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup like almond flour or coconut flour but adjust liquid accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Blackberry Cake is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavors that will impress any guest. Its versatility allows for endless customization options, whether you prefer different fruits or flavors. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!

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Blackberry Cake

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x

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Description

Blackberry Cake is a refreshing and elegant dessert that beautifully combines layers of zesty lemon cake, creamy mascarpone buttercream, and fresh blackberries. This stunning naked cake not only captivates with its vibrant colors but also delights with its harmonious blend of flavors, making it the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion—from birthday celebrations to summer picnics. Easy to make yet impressive in presentation, this delightful recipe allows for customization, so you can tailor it to your taste. Whether shared with family or friends, each slice of Blackberry Cake promises a burst of freshness and joy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/4 cups cake flour
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large egg whites
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter
• Zest from 1 lemon
• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• Fresh blackberries

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients: cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix wet ingredients: milk, sour cream, egg whites, lemon zest, and juice until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients in a stand mixer on low speed until just incorporated.
5. Gradually add softened butter until fully mixed.
6. Divide batter between pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
8. Prepare blackberry filling by simmering blackberries with egg yolks until thickened.
9. Make mascarpone buttercream by beating room temperature butter and mascarpone together; gradually add confectioners' sugar until desired consistency is reached.
10. Assemble the cake with layers of blackberry filling and mascarpone buttercream; frost lightly for a naked appearance.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Use fresh blackberries for optimal flavor; frozen can be used if thawed properly. Experiment with different fruits like raspberries or strawberries for added variety.