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Delicious slice of Black Velvet Cake with rich frosting
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Black Velvet Cake

A luscious cake that combines the richness of chocolate with an elegant dark hue, perfect for celebrations and everyday treats.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Black Velvet Cake, celebration cake, Chocolate Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Recipe
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 320kcal

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk offering a tangy creaminess
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil for moisture
  • 2 large eggs ensuring the cake rises perfectly
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adding warmth to the flavor
  • 1 cup brewed strong coffee, cooled enhancing the chocolate
  • 1 tablespoon black food coloring optional, for extra black color

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened for a luscious frosting
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter softened for creaminess
  • 4 cups powdered sugar crafted for sweetness and texture
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for the frosting, rounding out the flavor

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In another bowl, mix together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled brewed coffee.
  • Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the black food coloring if desired.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fluffy and light.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract to complete the frosting.

Assembling the Cake

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
  • Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
  • Decorate as desired with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or edible flowers.

Notes

For richer chocolate flavor, add a pinch of espresso powder. Ensure cakes cool completely before frosting to maintain structure. If frosting is too thick, add a little milk to achieve desired consistency.