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Slice of rich Midnight Velvet Cake topped with creamy frosting and chocolate shavings
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Black Velvet Cake

A decadent chocolate cake with layers of rich frosting, perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings.
Course Baking, Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword Black Velvet Cake, Celebration Cake, Chocolate Cake, easy cake recipe, Indulgent Dessert
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 400kcal

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Light and tender, forming the base of the cake.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Sweet, giving the cake its delightful flavor.
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Rich and aromatic, enhancing the chocolate essence.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Light and fluffy, ensuring the cake rises beautifully.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking soda For that perfect lift and texture.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balancing the sweetness with its savory touch.
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature Creamy, adding moisture and a slight tang.
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist and tender.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature Binding ingredients together for a cohesive texture.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Sweet and fragrant, enhancing the flavor profile.
  • 1 cup boiling water Helps meld the ingredients into a smooth batter.
  • 0.5 cup black food coloring gel For that deep, luxurious hue.

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Creamy and rich, forming the base of your frosting.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweet and fluffy, perfect for that irresistible frosting.
  • 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adding depth to the frosting flavor.
  • 0.25 cup heavy cream Rich and smooth, making the frosting airy.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Bringing sweetness and aroma to the frosting.

Garnish Ingredients

  • 0.5 cup blackberry preserves Adding a fruity twist between cake layers.
  • to taste fresh blackberries Juicy, adding a bright contrast to the dark cake.
  • to taste dark chocolate shavings Elegant, adding sophistication and texture.
  • to taste fresh mint leaves A pop of freshness, visually enhancing your creation.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In another bowl, combine buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well-blended.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
  • Carefully add boiling water and black food coloring gel to the batter, stirring until smooth.
  • Divide the batter evenly among your prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes.
  • Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Frosting

  • Beat softened unsalted butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
  • Add heavy cream and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until fluffy.

Assembly

  • Spread blackberry preserves between each layer of cake.
  • Frost the top and sides with chocolate frosting, smoothing it out for an even finish.
  • Garnish with fresh blackberries, dark chocolate shavings, and mint leaves.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Don’t rush the cooling time; this prevents a soggy cake. Be mindful when incorporating boiling water and food coloring.