Description
This stunning Black Velvet Cake recipe features rich, moist chocolate layers enhanced with coffee and cocoa, paired with a velvety cream cheese frosting. Its dramatic black hue and indulgent flavor make it perfect for birthdays, weddings, or elegant celebrations. Learn how to bake this showstopping dessert that’s easy to customize and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (use dark/black cocoa for 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
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Black gel food coloring (optional)
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 Garnish (optional)
- Chocolate shavings or curls
- Edible glitter or gold leaf
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Stir in hot water or coffee gradually.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until smooth. Add food coloring, if desired.
- Divide batter evenly into pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
- Mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream, adjusting for desired consistency.
- Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
- Decorate
- Garnish with chocolate curls, edible glitter, or gold leaf for a luxurious finish.
Notes
- Use black cocoa for a more intense color and flavor.
- For a vegan option, use plant-based substitutes for eggs, milk, and butter.
- To ensure smooth frosting, sift powdered sugar and use fully softened cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
