Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake

Name: Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup fresh blackberries; 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh sage; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¼ cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate, fresh blackberries, and aromatic sage with this Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your guests!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:31:27.812Z

This Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake is a unique twist on a classic dessert. The combination of chocolate and blackberries brings a burst of flavor, while the sage adds an unexpected herbal note that elevates this cake to a whole new level.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh blackberries
Aromatic sage adds a unique twist
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Unique Flavor Profile

The Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake is a remarkable dessert that beautifully marries the deep, rich flavors of chocolate with the refreshing tartness of blackberries. This unique combination creates a multi-dimensional taste experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. The addition of fresh sage introduces a subtle herbal note that complements the sweetness of the blackberries, making this cake an unforgettable treat for any gathering.

Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the vibrant flavors in this cake. The blackberries not only provide a burst of flavor but also add a lovely visual appeal with their rich color. The sage, when finely chopped, infuses the cake batter with its aromatic essence, creating a delightful surprise in every bite. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a sensory experience that engages taste, smell, and sight.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or a simple afternoon tea, this Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake is sure to impress. Its sophisticated flavor profile makes it suitable for upscale events, while its comforting chocolate base ensures it will be a hit at casual get-togethers. You can serve it as a show-stopping centerpiece at a celebration or as a cozy indulgence for a quiet evening at home.

Not only does this cake look stunning, but it also offers versatility in serving. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of decadence. The contrasting textures of the smooth frosting and moist cake, combined with the juicy blackberries, create a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed on any occasion.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake turns out perfectly, consider using high-quality cocoa powder. The chocolate flavor is central to this recipe, so a premium cocoa will elevate the cake's richness. Additionally, measuring your ingredients accurately is crucial; using a kitchen scale can help achieve precision, especially with flour and sugar.

When mixing the batter, avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy. The boiling water may seem unusual, but it enhances the cocoa flavor and ensures a moist crumb. Lastly, allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting is essential for a smooth finish. Patience pays off when it comes to decorating and serving this delicious cake!

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup fresh blackberries
2 tbsp finely chopped fresh sage

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Gather all the ingredients before starting the baking process.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.

Combine and Mix

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Carefully stir in the boiling water, blackberries, and chopped sage.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. For the frosting, beat together the butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Let the cake sit for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, but be aware that refrigeration might alter the texture slightly. Always allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.

If you have leftover cake, it can also be frozen. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to enjoy a slice of this delicious cake whenever the craving strikes, making it a convenient dessert option for future occasions.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake, consider garnishing with fresh blackberries and a sprinkle of chopped sage for added flair. This not only enhances the cake's visual appeal but also reinforces its delicious flavors. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a lovely touch, making it look even more inviting.

For an elegant presentation, serve slices of cake on dessert plates with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a berry coulis can elevate the dish further, providing a beautiful contrast of flavors and textures that your guests will appreciate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blackberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked and stored in the fridge for a couple of days before frosting.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.