This Blueberry Chocolate Cake is a rich, dark chocolate cake topped with a luscious blueberry buttercream. The deep chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart blueberry frosting, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. The cake is simple to prepare yet delivers a stunning presentation with its vibrant purple frosting.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Dark Chocolate Cake:
- 3 oz bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped (60% cacao)
- ⅓ cup dark (Dutch process) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup freshly brewed coffee (or hot water)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon chocolate extract (or substitute with vanilla extract)
Blueberry Buttercream:
- 1 ½ cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Directions
For the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8″ cake pan and set aside.
- In a heatproof bowl, combine chopped chocolate and cocoa powder. Pour hot coffee over the top and whisk until smooth. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Remove the chocolate mixture from the fridge and whisk in vegetable oil, eggs, vinegar, vanilla extract, and chocolate extract until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate mixture into the flour mixture and whisk until fully combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-34 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Blueberry Buttercream:
- In a saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down.
- Strain the blueberry mixture through a fine mesh strainer, discarding the skins and seeds.
- Return the strained juice to the saucepan and simmer until reduced by half. Allow to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the cooled blueberry reduction to the butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the buttercream evenly over the top.
Nutrients (Per Serving – 1 slice)
- Calories: 670 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 89g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 91mg
- Sodium: 147mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 75g
- Vitamin A: 700 IU
- Vitamin C: 3mg
- Calcium: 27mg
- Iron: 2mg
The Perfect Marriage of Chocolate and Blueberries
Chocolate and fruit are a classic combination, but the pairing of dark chocolate with blueberries takes it to a whole new level. The intense bitterness of dark chocolate complements the natural sweetness and tartness of blueberries, creating a well-balanced dessert. The blueberries add a fresh and slightly tangy contrast to the deep, rich cocoa flavors, resulting in a cake that is complex yet harmonious in taste.
A Cake for Every Occasion
This Blueberry Chocolate Cake is versatile and suits a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, this cake delivers both flavor and elegance. Its visually striking purple-hued buttercream makes it an eye-catching centerpiece, perfect for serving at dinner parties or celebrations. The unique flavor combination also sets it apart from traditional chocolate cakes, making it an exciting choice for adventurous dessert lovers.
### The Richness of Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is the star ingredient of this cake, providing an indulgent depth of flavor. The combination of finely chopped bittersweet chocolate and dark cocoa powder ensures a luscious and fudgy texture. Dark chocolate is also known for its health benefits, as it is packed with antioxidants and can improve heart health. When paired with blueberries, the nutritional profile of this dessert gets a slight boost, making it a treat you can enjoy with a bit less guilt.
The Magic of Blueberry Buttercream
The blueberry buttercream frosting is what sets this cake apart from other chocolate cakes. Made with fresh or frozen blueberries, it provides a vibrant color and a refreshing burst of fruity flavor. The blueberries are simmered with sugar and lemon juice to create a concentrated reduction, which is then blended into the buttercream. This results in a smooth, creamy frosting that perfectly balances the intensity of the chocolate cake.
One of the best things about this frosting is its natural color. Unlike artificial food dyes, the blueberry reduction gives the buttercream a stunning purple hue, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. The frosting can be adjusted to taste, allowing you to control the level of sweetness and tartness to your preference.
The Simplicity of Preparation
Despite its luxurious appearance and sophisticated taste, this Blueberry Chocolate Cake is surprisingly simple to make. The cake batter comes together effortlessly, and the buttercream is easy to whip up. Unlike multi-layer cakes that require intricate assembly, this single-layer cake is straightforward to frost and decorate. Even beginners can achieve a professional-looking dessert with minimal effort.
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about this cake is its adaptability. Here are some creative ways to personalize it:
- Layered Cake: If you want a more extravagant dessert, double the recipe and create a two-layer cake. Spread extra blueberry buttercream between the layers for a richer experience.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flax eggs (a mix of ground flaxseed and water), use plant-based butter, and opt for a dairy-free milk substitute.
- Extra Toppings: Garnish with fresh blueberries, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of dark chocolate ganache for an added touch of indulgence.
Tips for the Best Blueberry Chocolate Cake
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor. Choose a bittersweet chocolate with at least 60% cacao for the best results.
- Don’t Skip the Coffee: While coffee is an optional ingredient, it enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
- Let the Cake Cool Completely: Before applying the blueberry buttercream, ensure the cake is fully cooled to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Strain the Blueberry Reduction: To achieve a smooth and creamy buttercream, strain the blueberry mixture to remove any skins and seeds.
- Sift the Powdered Sugar: Sifting helps prevent lumps in the buttercream and ensures a silky texture.
Storing and Serving the Cake
This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to two days in an airtight container. If you need to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. However, be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to allow the buttercream to soften. For those who like to plan ahead, this cake also freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months.
When serving, pair this cake with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the ultimate experience. The richness of the chocolate and the freshness of the blueberries create a delightful contrast that is enhanced by a complementary beverage.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
If you’re a fan of chocolate desserts but are looking for something unique, this Blueberry Chocolate Cake is a must-try. Here’s why it stands out:
- Rich and Decadent: The deep chocolate flavor is both intense and satisfying.
- Fruity and Refreshing: The blueberry buttercream provides a bright contrast to the dense cake.
- Visually Stunning: The natural purple frosting makes it a showstopper at any event.
- Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet look, this cake is simple and approachable for bakers of all levels.
- Customizable: With a variety of modifications, this cake can be tailored to different dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Blueberry Chocolate Cake is the perfect combination of rich chocolate and fresh blueberries, creating a unique and delightful dessert. The deep, velvety cake pairs beautifully with the light, fruity buttercream, resulting in a treat that is both indulgent and refreshing. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress.
Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it is also easy to make and visually appealing. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this cake is a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The natural colors and flavors make it a standout dessert that is worth every bite. So, the next time you’re looking for a chocolate cake with a twist, give this Blueberry Chocolate Cake a try—you won’t be disappointed!