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Delicious slice of Black Velvet Cake topped with cream cheese frosting
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Black Velvet Cake

A rich and moist dessert that combines deep cocoa flavors with creamy frosting, perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: birthday cake, Black Velvet Cake, Chocolate Cake, Dessert Recipe, Indulgent Dessert
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 400kcal

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Acts as the cake's sturdy base, providing structure and lightness.
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the cake, ensuring it’s deliciously satisfying.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adds a robust chocolate flavor that gives the cake its signature richness.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise, creating a light and fluffy texture.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda Aids in leavening to achieve your desired cake height.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness while enhancing the overall flavors.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Contributes moisture and a subtle tang to the cake.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist and tender.
  • 2 large eggs Provide richness and stability to the batter.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Infuses a warm, comforting flavor.
  • 1 cup hot water Ensures a tender crumb and helps dissolve the cocoa powder.
  • 1 tablespoon black food coloring (optional) Deepens the color, intensifying the 'black velvet' effect.

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Forms a creamy base for your frosting.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Provides sweetness and creates a light texture in the frosting.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting) Reinforces the chocolate flavor.
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream Adds richness and helps to achieve the perfect consistency.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting) Adds that nostalgic touch of flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon black food coloring (optional, for frosting) Enhances the striking appearance of the finished cake.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat until smooth. Gradually stir in the hot water until the batter is well combined and thin. Mix in the black food coloring if desired.

Baking

  • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Frosting

  • For the frosting, beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar and cocoa powder at low speed.
  • Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy. Mix in the black food coloring for a stunning finish if using.

Assembly

  • Once the cakes have cooled, frost them as desired. Chill the frosted cake for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set properly.

Notes

To elevate your Black Velvet Cake, consider adding chocolate shavings or edible glitter on top for decoration. Adding a pinch of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor without adding any coffee taste. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better batter consistency.