Elegant Black Velvet Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, rich chocolate flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and hot coffee enhances the chocolate notes beautifully.
• Elegant appearance: The striking black hue of the cake paired with creamy frosting makes it a showstopper.
• Moist and tender texture: Thanks to buttermilk and oil, every bite is perfectly moist.
• Versatile: Add edible glitter, chocolate shavings, or gold leaf for extra glamour.
• Crowd-pleaser: This cake’s luxurious look and flavor make it a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (dark or black cocoa for a deeper color)
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup hot water or hot coffee (enhances the chocolate flavor)
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Black gel food coloring (optional, for a dramatic black hue)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for desired consistency)

For Garnish (optional)

• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Edible glitter or gold leaf for a glamorous finish

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

Directions

Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Slowly stir in hot water or coffee.
4. Combine ingredients: Gradually add wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until smooth. Add black gel food coloring if desired.
5. Bake: Divide batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat cream cheese and butter: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar: Gradually beat in sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until smooth.
3. Add vanilla: Mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream if needed for a smoother texture.

Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of frosting on top.
2. Add the second layer: Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

Garnish

1. Decorate: Garnish with chocolate shavings, curls, edible glitter, or gold leaf for an elegant touch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-14 slices
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Different colors: Replace black gel food coloring with red for a Red Velvet Cake twist.
• Alternative frostings: Swap cream cheese frosting with chocolate ganache for a decadent flavor.
• Flavors: Add orange or peppermint extract for a festive spin.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based milk, egg substitutes, and vegan butter for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Reheating: Bring to room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving to preserve the frosting’s texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of black cocoa?

Yes, regular cocoa powder works, but black cocoa gives the cake its dramatic color and richer flavor.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance and frost before serving.

3. Do I have to use hot coffee?

No, you can use hot water instead, but coffee enhances the chocolate flavor.

4. Can I omit the food coloring?

Yes, the cake will still taste amazing without the black food coloring.

5. What can I substitute for buttermilk?

Use 1 cup of regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

6. How can I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans?

Grease and flour the pans thoroughly, or use parchment paper rounds.

7. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

8. How can I achieve smooth frosting?

Sift the powdered sugar and ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing.

9. Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?

Yes, this recipe makes approximately 24 cupcakes. Bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.

10. How do I add gold leaf without ruining the frosting?

Use tweezers to gently place gold leaf onto the frosting after it’s set.

Conclusion

This Elegant Black Velvet Cake is a true masterpiece in both flavor and presentation. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is a decadent choice that’s sure to impress. With its rich chocolate taste, silky cream cheese frosting, and customizable garnishes, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

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