Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Prepare Blackberry Puree: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 1/2 cups of fresh blackberries, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a splash of water. Stir occasionally and cook for 8-10 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy. Once done, remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to reserve the puree, discarding the seeds.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until well combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat 1 cup of room-temperature unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar together for about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add 3 large eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract and optionally 1 teaspoon of lemon zest.
- Combine with Buttermilk: In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of buttermilk with 1/2 cup of the reserved blackberry puree. Gradually add this buttermilk mixture to the butter mixture while alternating with the dry ingredients.
- Bake: Divide the prepared batter evenly between the two cake pans. Bake for 28-32 minutes. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Make Frosting: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of room-temperature unsalted butter and 4 oz of cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing well, followed by 1/3 cup of the blackberry puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Assemble Cake: Frost the top of one layer with a generous amount of frosting. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. Decorate with fresh blackberries, edible flowers, or mint leaves for a beautiful finish.
Nutrition
Notes
Expert Tips: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, don't overmix the batter, and check for doneness using a toothpick test. Chill frosting if too soft, and utilize seasonal berries for unique flavors.
