Description
A rich and moist Decadent Black Velvet Cake featuring deep cocoa flavors in a tender crumb, layered with a smooth and creamy chocolate buttercream frosting. Perfect for special occasions or any time you crave a sophisticated chocolate treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (dark or black cocoa preferred)
- 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
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4–5 tbsp milk or heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture until smooth and well incorporated.
- Incorporate Boiling Water: Slowly stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin—this is normal and ensures a moist cake.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Sift in powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well to avoid lumps.
- Add Flavor and Creaminess: Stir in the vanilla extract and 4 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream. Beat until smooth, adding additional milk if needed to achieve the desired spreading consistency.
- Assemble and Decorate: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of the chocolate buttercream frosting on top. Add the second cake layer, then frost the top and sides evenly.
- Garnish: Finish by decorating with chocolate shavings, edible glitter, or fresh berries for an elegant and festive appearance.
Notes
- Using black cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor and provides a deeper color.
- Ensure the cakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
- Adjust the milk or cream in the frosting to get your preferred consistency for spreading or piping.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and milk with vegan alternatives.
- This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days when stored covered at room temperature or refrigerated.
