Sublime Black Velvet Treat

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers the perfect combination of a soft, moist cake with a deeply flavorful chocolate taste. The addition of buttermilk and vegetable oil ensures a tender crumb, while the dark cocoa powder gives the cake its bold, indulgent flavor. The frosting adds a rich, creamy layer to the dessert, making every bite a true chocolate lover’s dream. It’s easy to make, requires basic ingredients, and is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably dark or black cocoa)
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 4-5 tbsp milk or heavy cream

Directions

1. Prepare Cake Batter: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth. Carefully stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin).
3. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake 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 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with the powdered sugar and cocoa powder until smooth. Add vanilla extract and 4 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream, then beat until light and fluffy. Add more milk if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes have completely cooled, frost the top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake, smoothing the frosting evenly over the surface and sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling time: 1 hour
• Total time: 2 hours

Variations

• Flavored Frosting: Experiment with different flavored frostings such as coffee, mint, or orange zest to add a unique twist to this chocolate cake.
• Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of caramel to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mini Cakes: Bake the cake in smaller pans for individual servings or to create a tiered cake for a special occasion.
• Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free and egg-free option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also store it in the fridge for up to 1 week, but it’s best enjoyed at room temperature.
• Freezing: If you want to store the cake for longer, you can freeze individual slices or the whole cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds for a warm and comforting treat.

FAQs

How can I make this cake even more moist?

To make the cake extra moist, ensure you are using buttermilk and vegetable oil as they both contribute to a soft texture. Also, avoid overbaking the cake.

Can I use a different type of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can use regular cocoa powder, but dark or black cocoa powder provides a deeper, richer flavor and a darker color to the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day or two ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. Frost it just before serving for the best results.

Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! You can switch up the frosting with cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or even a ganache for a different flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! This cake is elegant and rich, making it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration that calls for a decadent dessert.

Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?

Yes, this recipe can be adapted into cupcakes. Simply pour the batter into lined cupcake pans and bake for about 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and taste of the cake. The cake might be less sweet, so adjust the sweetness of the frosting accordingly.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease and flour the cake pans thoroughly, or use parchment paper on the bottom of the pans to ensure the cakes come out easily after baking.

Can I substitute the buttermilk for something else?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of 1 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I make the frosting smoother?

Ensure the butter is softened before mixing with the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Gradually add the milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Conclusion

This Sublime Black Velvet Treat is a must-try dessert for anyone who loves rich, chocolatey indulgence. With its soft texture, deep cocoa flavor, and velvety frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to devour. Whether it’s for a special event or just a treat for yourself, this cake will surely satisfy any chocolate craving. Enjoy!