Name: Blackberry Bliss Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature; 1/2 cup blackberry puree; 1 cup fresh blackberries; 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature; 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup blackberry puree; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

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If you’re looking for a truly show-stopping dessert, let me introduce you to the Blackberry Bliss Cake. This cake combines fluffy, tender layers infused with fresh blackberries and luscious blackberry puree, all wrapped up in a dreamy blackberry buttercream frosting. The balance of sweet and tart flavors, paired with a moist crumb and a creamy, berry-kissed frosting, makes this cake an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a celebration or just a treat to brighten your day, the Blackberry Bliss Cake promises both elegance and comfort in every bite.

Blackberry Bliss Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, quality ingredients are the backbone of this cake’s spectacular flavor and texture. Each one plays a vital role, from the flour that builds structure to the fresh blackberries that bring bursts of juicy brightness.

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake its perfect, tender crumb.
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and fruity flavors without overpowering them.
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Adds richness, moisture, and that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right while helping to create a light texture.
4 large eggs, room temperature: Provides structure and moisture, binding everything seamlessly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor and adds warmth to the batter.
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature: Gives the cake a slight tang and tenderizes the crumb.
1/2 cup blackberry puree: Infuses the cake layers with deep, fruity flavor and beautiful color.
1 cup fresh blackberries: Adds juicy pockets of freshness in every bite.
For the Blackberry Buttercream:
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: The creamy base of the frosting that whips up silky smooth.
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the buttercream perfectly.
1/4 cup blackberry puree: Gives the frosting its signature berry flavor and stunning hue.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the berry notes with subtle sweetness.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens the overall flavor.

How to Make Blackberry Bliss Cake

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing three 8-inch round cake pans with butter and parchment paper. This ensures your cake layers come out clean and perfect, ready for stacking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This step ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed, which is key for even rising and delicate texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. This aeration will give your cake an airy crumb. Then, add eggs one at a time, beating well after each, and stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant base.

Step 4: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Slowly mix in the dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately, starting and ending with the dry mix. Doing this gently prevents overmixing, which could toughen the crumb, ensuring your cake stays tender and soft.

Step 5: Fold in Blackberries and Puree

Carefully fold in the blackberry puree and fresh blackberries. The fresh berries add surprising bursts of flavor and slight juiciness that makes the Blackberry Bliss Cake so special.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Blackberry Buttercream

Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar. Blend in the blackberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whip the frosting until fluffy and able to hold stiff peaks — this frosting will envelop your cake in rich berry goodness.

Step 8: Assemble the Blackberry Bliss Cake

Once your cake layers are fully cooled, level the tops if needed for stability. Place the first layer on a cake stand or plate and spread a generous layer of buttercream. Repeat with the remaining layers. Finally, frost the top and sides smoothly and decorate with fresh blackberries for a beautiful finishing touch.

How to Serve Blackberry Bliss Cake

Garnishes

Fresh blackberries on top offer vibrant color and refreshing tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet buttercream. A light dusting of powdered sugar or edible flowers can add an elegant flair.

Side Dishes

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience. Fresh berry compote or a simple berry salad complements the cake’s fruity notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into delicate wedges and plate with drizzle of blackberry coulis or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for crunch. You can also serve mini versions in cupcake liners for individual treats at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Blackberry Bliss Cake covered loosely with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual layers tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or store the assembled cake in a cake container. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

No reheating needed for this cake—just bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes if chilled or frozen to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the batter too wet. Frozen blackberries still add wonderful flavor and color.

How do I make blackberry puree?

Simply blend fresh or thawed blackberries until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine sieve if you want to remove seeds for a silky texture.

Why is it important for ingredients to be at room temperature?

Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and evenly, helping you achieve the perfect batter consistency and light cake crumb without lumps or separation.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the cake’s structure and moisture.

How long will the Blackberry Bliss Cake keep fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, it stays fresh for up to 2 days. Refrigerating may extend shelf life to 4 days but could slightly firm the buttercream.

Final Thoughts

The Blackberry Bliss Cake is truly a delight that brings joy to any occasion with its fresh flavors and luxurious texture. Baking this cake is like sharing a little slice of happiness with your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to whip one up soon—you’ll fall in love with every berry-filled, buttery bite!

Blackberry Bliss Cake Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 15 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Blackberry Bliss Cake is a moist and flavorful layered cake combining the sweetness of vanilla butter cake with the tartness of fresh blackberries and blackberry puree. Topped with a luscious blackberry-infused buttercream, this cake is perfect for celebrations or any occasion that calls for a stunning berry dessert.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure the leavening agent is evenly distributed.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then stir in vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid dense texture.
Fold in Blackberries: Gently fold in the blackberry puree and fresh blackberries carefully to maintain the batter’s airiness.
Fill Pans and Bake: Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool Cake Layers: Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare Buttercream: Beat unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then blackberry puree, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until fluffy with stiff peaks.
Assemble the Cake: Level cooled cake layers if needed. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of buttercream. Repeat with remaining layers.
Frost and Decorate: Frost the top and sides with remaining buttercream. Smooth using an offset spatula and garnish with fresh blackberries for a decorative finish.

Notes

Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for smooth mixing and ideal texture.
Fold in blackberries gently to avoid crushing them and creating a dense batter.
Cool cake layers completely before frosting to prevent buttercream from melting.
Frozen blackberries can be used if thawed completely and drained of excess liquid.
Blackberry puree can be made by blending fresh or thawed blackberries and straining if desired.

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