Appetizer & Dessert

Blackberry Red Wine Chocolate Cake – Treat Indulgently

Name: Blackberry Red Wine Chocolate Cake – Treat Indulgently
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 cup cultured buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup light olive oil or neutral vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 3/4 cups plain all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened dark or Dutch-processed cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 cup blackberry wine or a bold red wine; 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest; 2 cups unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 1/4 cup heavy cream, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste, pure vanilla extract, or scraped seeds from 1 vanilla pod; 1/3 cup blackberry preserves; Pinch of fine sea salt; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 3.5 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2–3 tablespoons warm water; 1/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted; 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder

Rachel Ortiz August 20, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 2 hrs 35 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When you’re planning for a blackberry red wine chocolate cake, it’s important to think about what complements its rich, chocolatey goodness. The cake itself is luxurious; it calls for equally delightful companions. A scoop of freshly whipped cream drizzled with a berry compote would fit the bill beautifully.

Pairing it with a scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream can transform dessert into a creamy dream. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of mascarpone cheese topped with a hint of lemon zest might just elevate your cake experience.

Ready for a deep dive into the deliciousness of blackberry red wine chocolate cake? Let’s get rolling!

What is Blackberry Red Wine Chocolate Cake?

Blackberry red wine chocolate cake is a chocolate cake that seamlessly incorporates blackberry wine, giving it a unique twist. It’s not just any chocolate cake; it’s a luscious dessert infused with the vibrancy of blackberries and the depth of red wine.

This cake features a moist crumb and a complex flavor profile that captures the wintry notes of red wine while balancing the subtle tartness of ripe blackberries. It’s perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or even just an indulgent weekday treat.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of blackberry red wine chocolate cake is an intricate dance of sweet, rich, and slightly tart flavors. Imagine biting into a cake that’s both light and moist, where deep chocolate notes meld beautifully with the fruity undertones of blackberries and the bold essence of red wine.

The cake strikes a balance; it satisfies dessert cravings while providing a unique twist. When served warm or at room temperature, the frosting and glaze enhance the experience even further, introducing a silky and luxurious texture.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Blackberry Red Wine Chocolate Cakes?

What sets this recipe apart from others lies in its simplicity combined with gourmet elements. While many recipes may opt for basic red wine or standard chocolate, this cake amplifies flavors through the use of high-quality ingredients and careful technique.

The addition of buttermilk ensures a tender texture, while the combination of unsweetened cocoa and semi-sweet chocolate yield a rich chocolate flavor without overwhelming the palate. Plus, the unique infusion of blackberry preserves in the frosting adds a fruity dimension that delights the senses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down the components required for this indulgent cake. Having the right ingredients makes all the difference!

For the cake:

1 cup / 240 g cultured buttermilk
2 large eggs, at room temperature
½ cup / 112 g light olive oil or neutral vegetable oil
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups / 400 g granulated sugar
1 ¾ cups / 218 g plain all-purpose flour
¾ cup / 70 g unsweetened dark or Dutch-processed cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 cup / 240 g blackberry wine or a bold red wine
1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest (optional)

For the frosting:

2 cups / 452 g (4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3 ¾ cups / 452 g (1 pound) powdered sugar, sifted
¼ cup heavy cream, at room temperature (plus more if needed for consistency)
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste, pure vanilla extract, or scraped seeds from 1 vanilla pod
⅓ cup blackberry preserves
Pinch of fine sea salt
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

For the chocolate glaze:

3.5 ounces / 100 g high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
¼ cup heavy cream
2–3 tablespoons warm water
¼ cup powdered sugar, sifted
½ teaspoon espresso powder (optional)

How to Make Blackberry Red Wine Chocolate Cake

Step by Step Directions

Now, let’s get down to business. This is where the magic happens!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake will bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cake Pans

Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also use parchment paper for an easy release. Nobody wants to deal with a cake that’s stuck in the pan!

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, oil, and vanilla. Whisk until it’s a smooth mixture. This will create the foundation for your cake.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.

Step 5: Mix Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Alternate with red wine. This helps avoid lumps. Mix just until combined; overmixing can result in a dense cake.

Step 6: Optional Zest

If you decided to use orange zest, fold it in gently; it adds a delightful brightness without overpowering the chocolate flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla. Mix until fluffy and smooth.

Step 9: Add Blackberry Preserves

Stir in the blackberry preserves, pinch of salt, and lemon juice (if you’re using it) until well combined.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

Once your cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Stack the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Step 11: Make the Chocolate Glaze

For the chocolate glaze, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth. If needed, add warm water to adjust the consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the frosted cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake into generous pieces, and enjoy!

Tips On Making Blackberry Red Wine Chocolate Cake

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some hard-earned tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps the batter mix better and results in a lighter cake.
Don’t Overmix: Mix only until combined to avoid a dense texture.
Quality Ingredients Matter: The flavor of your wine and chocolate will shine through. Opt for something you enjoy drinking.
Cooling Time is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and mess.
Storage for Freshness: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition Information

For each serving (1 slice, out of approximately 12 slices), you can expect:

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrate: 62g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 34g
Protein: 4g

Keep in mind that these values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

How Can I Store This Blackberry Red Wine Chocolate Cake?

This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can still be delicious. Store your cake in an airtight container in a cool place. If you live in a hot climate, consider refrigerating it to prevent spoilage. The texture of the cake might change slightly in the fridge, but a quick zap in the microwave can bring back its moist charm.

Ingredient Substitutes

Sometimes, you don’t have everything on hand. Here are some substitutes for common ingredients:

If you don’t have blackberry wine: Use any fruity red wine, like Merlot or Pinot Noir. Alternatively, you can create a mocktail version by using a blend of blackberry juice and a splash of grape vinegar.
Buttermilk alternative: Blend milk (or a non-dairy alternative) with lemon juice or vinegar for a quick homemade buttermilk substitute.
Egg substitutes: If you need a vegan version, use a mix of 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This provides the necessary binding without altering the flavor.
High-quality cocoa powder: If you can’t find Dutch-processed or unsweetened cocoa, regular cocoa powder works but may alter the taste slightly.

Conclusion

Blackberry red wine chocolate cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. From the process of baking to the joyful moment it graces your dining table, this cake invokes warmth and decadent pleasure.

It’s a conversation starter, a centerpiece, and a treat that beckons everyone to take a piece and indulge. Try it out, bring your loved ones together, and dive into the culinary joys of this exquisite cake. After all, food has a unique power to create memories. Enjoy every slice!

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Print Recipe

Blackberry Red Wine Chocolate Cake – Treat Indulgently

Author: Rachel Ortiz Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 2 hrs Cook Time 35 mins Total Time 2 hrs 35 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 450 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

When life gives you blackberries, red wine, and chocolate, you make an unforgettable cake. There's something inherently comforting about cake, especially when it’s decadent and derived from ingredients that harmoniously blend together. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a lazy Sunday afternoon when I had all the components on hand but no clear idea of what to do with them.

Combine my obsession with baking and the fleeting summer bounty of blackberries, and you get a masterpiece that transcends standard chocolate cake. Join me on this delicious journey as we explore the wonders of blackberry red wine chocolate cake, the flavors it brings, and the joy it can add to your gatherings.