Blackberry Velvet Gothic Cake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cake

01 - All-purpose flour
02 - Unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - Buttermilk
04 - Blackberries
05 - Vanilla extract

→ Frosting

06 - Cream cheese
07 - Powdered sugar
08 - Blackberry reduction

# Instructions:

01 - Heat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line two round cake pans with parchment paper. Grease the sides to ensure easy release.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure an even blend.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat together sugar and oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract and buttermilk.
04 - Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Once combined, gently fold in the blackberries.
05 - Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
06 - Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and blackberry reduction, mixing until smooth and vibrant.
07 - Layer the cooled cakes with frosting in between. Swirl the top with extra blackberry reduction for a dramatic finish.

# Notes:

01 - For a more dramatic presentation, consider adding edible flowers or a sprinkle of gold dust to the finished cake.