Name: Bourbon Blackberry Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk, shaken; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee; ½ cup bourbon; 1 cup fresh blackberries; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 2 tablespoons bourbon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Jump to Recipe

There is something truly magical about the Bourbon Blackberry Cake that brings a perfect balance of rich chocolate, bright tart blackberries, and that warm depth of bourbon all wrapped up in a moist, tender crumb. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that sings with every bite, blending flavors that feel both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, this Bourbon Blackberry Cake delivers a show-stopping statement layered with lusciousness and charm.

Bourbon Blackberry Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward flavor bliss. Each component in the Bourbon Blackberry Cake is simple yet essential, contributing to a harmonious symphony of texture, color, and taste that will make this cake irresistible.

All-purpose flour 1 ¾ cups: Provides the structure for a tender, soft crumb.
Granulated sugar 2 cups: Sweetens and helps create a moist texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder ¾ cup: Adds deep, rich chocolate flavor with a velvety note.
Baking soda 2 teaspoons: Helps the cake rise perfectly light and fluffy.
Baking powder 1 teaspoon: Assists in giving the cake a tender lift.
Salt 1 teaspoon: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
Buttermilk 1 cup, shaken: Adds moisture and a slight tang to complement the chocolate.
Vegetable oil ½ cup: Keeps the cake unbelievably moist and soft.
Large eggs 2, room temperature: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
Vanilla extract 2 teaspoons: Introduces depth and warmth.
Freshly brewed hot coffee 1 cup: Enhances the cocoa’s intensity without overpowering.
Bourbon ½ cup: Infuses the cake with smoky, caramel undertones that set it apart.

How to Make Bourbon Blackberry Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans – this simple step ensures your layers come out clean and intact. For an extra touch of ease, lining the bottoms with parchment paper is a game-changer. It’s all about creating the perfect baking environment to set you up for success.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This thorough blending is key to an even crumb and a well-balanced flavor throughout your Bourbon Blackberry Cake. Taking the time here pays off when your cake rises beautifully and bakes evenly.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. These ingredients bring richness and moisture, and the buttermilk’s tang will play beautifully against the chocolate and bourbon.

Step 4: Bring it All Together

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry and gently combine until almost smooth. Next, carefully stir in the freshly brewed hot coffee and bourbon. The hot coffee enhances the cocoa notes, while the bourbon adds complexity and a subtle boozy warmth that makes the Bourbon Blackberry Cake stand out.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between your two prepared pans. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes rest for about 10 minutes in their pans before transferring them to cooling racks. This resting time helps the cake layers settle and makes them easier to handle during assembly.

Step 6: Prepare the Blackberry Buttercream

In a saucepan over medium heat, gently simmer the fresh blackberries with sugar and water for about 10 minutes. This process releases the fruit’s vibrant flavor and natural juices. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds, then let it cool.

Meanwhile, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, then mix in the bourbon, vanilla extract, salt, and the cooled blackberry reduction. Continue to beat until the buttercream is light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh berry goodness. This luscious frosting will beautifully balance the rich chocolate layers.

Step 7: Assemble Your Bourbon Blackberry Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of blackberry buttercream over the top. Gently add the second cake layer, then frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream. For that magical finishing touch, adorn your masterpiece with whole blackberries or chocolate shavings, making it as delightful to look at as it is to devour.

How to Serve Bourbon Blackberry Cake

Garnishes

Fresh blackberries scattered atop the cake add a burst of natural color and tartness. For a touch of elegance, try chocolate curls, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even edible flowers. These simple garnishes elevate the visual appeal and complement the cake’s deep flavors.

Side Dishes

A warm cup of espresso pairs beautifully with the Bourbon Blackberry Cake, cutting through its richness and enhancing the chocolate’s bold notes. Alternatively, a silky port or a glass of dessert wine can provide a decadent accompaniment perfect for celebrations or cozy evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into charming mini servings for a party, or serve a thick wedge alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for extra indulgence. Drizzling a little warmed blackberry sauce or bourbon caramel over the top can turn this cake into a gourmet experience that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Bourbon Blackberry Cake fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to five days — perfect for savoring piece by piece whenever the mood strikes.

Freezing

If you want to make this cake well ahead, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to three months without losing its luscious texture and flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

For a warm slice of heaven, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings out the moistness and enhances the aroma of bourbon and cocoa, making each bite feel freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I make this cake a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors in the Bourbon Blackberry Cake deepen beautifully overnight, making it an ideal candidate for make-ahead celebrations or simple weekend indulgence.

What if my buttercream splits?

If your blackberry buttercream looks like it’s separating, don’t worry. Just beat in a bit more of the berry reduction or a splash of milk, and it will come back to smooth, fluffy perfection.

Can I substitute the bourbon?

Yes! If you prefer, you can use dark rum for a similar rich flavor or omit the alcohol entirely for an alcohol-free version without compromising the cake’s moistness and taste.

Are frozen blackberries okay to use in the frosting?

Fresh blackberries are best for the vibrant flavor and texture in the buttercream. However, if frozen are all you have, just thaw them fully and strain well to avoid excess moisture in the frosting.

How can I make this cake vegan?

For a vegan twist, replace eggs with flaxseed eggs, substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk and acid (like almond milk and lemon juice), use vegan butter for the frosting, and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm hug and yet dazzles with complexity, the Bourbon Blackberry Cake is calling your name. Trust me, once you experience the union of rich chocolate, boozy bourbon, and juicy blackberry in this cake, you’ll be reaching for the recipe again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of pure joy.

Bourbon Blackberry Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 24 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Bourbon Blackberry Cake is a decadent dessert featuring a rich bourbon-infused chocolate cake layered with luscious blackberry buttercream. Perfect for fall or special occasions, it combines deep chocolate flavors with the tart sweetness of fresh blackberries and a hint of bourbon for a truly indulgent experience.

Instructions

Prep Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans for easy removal, and to ensure the cakes don’t stick, place parchment paper rounds in the bottoms.
Mix the Magic: Sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry mixture, then gradually stir in the freshly brewed hot coffee followed by the bourbon. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
Bake to Perfection: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to cooling racks to cool completely.
Whip the Frosting: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh blackberries, sugar, and water and simmer for about 10 minutes until the berries break down and release their juices. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and let the reduction cool completely. Meanwhile, beat the softened butter until creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, continuing to beat until fluffy. Add the cooled blackberry reduction, bourbon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until the buttercream is smooth and light.
Assemble with Finesse: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of blackberry buttercream over the top. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining buttercream evenly over the top and sides. Decorate with fresh blackberries or chocolate shavings if desired to create a beautiful presentation. Chill briefly if needed to set the frosting before serving.

Notes

To make this cake alcohol-free, simply omit the bourbon and replace the bourbon in the frosting with an equal amount of milk or additional blackberry reduction.
You can swap blackberries with raspberries for a different berry flavor in the buttercream.
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to keep it fresh.
The cake flavors improve overnight, so consider making it a day ahead of serving.
If the buttercream splits, beat in a little more berry reduction or a small splash of milk to bring it back together.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American