Decadent Black Velvet Cake: A Slice of Elegance
Rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey, the Black Velvet Cake is a show-stopping dessert that will elevate any occasion. With its striking dark hue and luxurious texture, this cake is a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or a cozy night in, this cake is guaranteed to impress with its velvety crumb and indulgent layers.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups black cocoa powder
- 1 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 3 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ¾ teaspoons fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup canola oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ⅔ cup hot coffee (or substitute hot water)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, black cocoa powder, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, granulated sugar, sea salt, and baking soda. Stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, canola oil, buttermilk, hot coffee, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of decadence.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Whipped Frosting
- In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped frosting over the top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides, smoothing with an offset spatula for a clean finish.
- For an extra touch, garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Conclusion
The Decadent Black Velvet Cake is a dessert that exudes elegance and indulgence. Its bold chocolate flavor and creamy whipped frosting create a harmonious balance that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re enjoying it as the centerpiece of a celebration or a special treat, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression. Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the ultimate dessert experience!