Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake

Name: Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup fresh blackberries; 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Dreamy Dessert Lab

Indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate cake infused with the unique essence of blackberry and sage. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:34:27.910Z

This Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake combines the lush, fruity flavor of blackberries with the earthy notes of sage, resulting in a dessert that is both sophisticated and comforting.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh blackberry and sage
Moist and decadent texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Unique Flavor Combination

The Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake combines unexpected flavors that dance harmoniously on your palate. The chocolate's rich, deep tones complement the sweet and slightly tart blackberries, creating a delightful contrast. Meanwhile, the fresh sage adds a hint of earthiness that elevates the entire dessert experience. This unique flavor profile sets it apart from traditional chocolate cakes, making it a memorable choice for gatherings or special occasions.

Using fresh blackberries not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful touch of color to the cake. As you slice through the layers, the vibrant purple of the berries peeks through the rich chocolate, inviting everyone to indulge. Additionally, the incorporation of sage lends a sophisticated twist that surprises and delights those who take a bite.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something sweet, this Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake fits the bill. Its elegant presentation and complex flavors make it a fitting centerpiece for any gathering. Guests will be impressed not only by its appearance but also by the taste, which leaves a lasting impression.

This cake also holds up well for special occasions or casual get-togethers. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just frost it before serving for a fresh, delectable treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake is a success, consider using room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk. This helps the batter mix more evenly, resulting in a moist and tender cake. Additionally, be gentle when folding in the berries and sage to avoid breaking them apart, which could affect the cake's texture and appearance.

Don't rush the cooling process before frosting. Allowing the cakes to cool completely on wire racks prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a smooth, beautiful finish. If you're looking to elevate the presentation further, consider garnishing with additional fresh blackberries and sage leaves for a stunning visual impact.

Ingredients

Gather all the necessary ingredients before starting the baking process.

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup fresh blackberries
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are measured accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your delicious cake.

Prepare the Oven and Pans

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in blackberries and sage.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Prepare the frosting by beating together butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, cream, and vanilla until smooth. Frost the cooled cakes as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake!

Storage Recommendations

To maintain the freshness of your Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it, which may extend its shelf life for about a week. Just remember, refrigeration can affect the texture slightly, making it a bit denser.

If you need to keep the cake for longer, consider freezing it. Wrap each layer individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight, then frost and serve.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful serving suggestion, pair slices of Blackberry Sage Chocolate Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy textures and flavors will beautifully complement the cake's richness. Additionally, a drizzle of berry compote can elevate the dessert even further, enhancing its fruity notes.

Consider serving this cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the cake, while a warm cup of herbal tea provides a soothing contrast. This pairing makes for a perfect afternoon treat or an after-dinner indulgence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blackberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding to the batter.

→ How should I store the cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of sage?

If you don't have sage, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or mint for a different flavor profile.