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Rich and Decadent Black Velvet Cake

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  • Author: fella
  • Prep Time: 20min
  • Cook Time: 35min
  • Total Time: 55min
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Impress any chocolate lover with this Rich and Decadent Black Velvet Cake. Moist, tender, and topped with luscious dark chocolate frosting, it’s perfect for any occasion!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 1 tablespoon black food coloring (gel or liquid)

For the Dark Chocolate Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using a mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Stir in the hot water and black food coloring until the batter is smooth and evenly colored.
  7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.

2. Bake the Cake

  1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

4. Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of dark chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
  2. Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
  3. Decorate with additional toppings or decorations, if desired.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Bake the cakes a day ahead and wrap tightly to keep moist. Frost just before serving.
  • Decorating Tips: Add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries for an elegant touch.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.