Black Velvet Cake
Black Velvet Cake is a rich, moist chocolate cake that stands out with its dark color and velvety texture. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, wedding, or a simple family gathering. Its unique flavor, combined with cream cheese frosting, makes it a delightful treat that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Black Velvet Cake is an excellent way to impress your friends and family. This cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The combination of cocoa powder and black food coloring gives it a strikingly deep color that draws the eye. Plus, the moist texture and creamy frosting make each bite irresistible. Baking this cake is a fun activity, and the end result is sure to leave a lasting impression.
How to Make Black Velvet Cake
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 3/4 cup (180ml) vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup (180ml) brewed coffee (hot)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 to 2 tsp black food coloring
For the frosting:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup (225g) cream cheese (softened)
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk sugar and eggs until smooth and pale.
- Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, brewed coffee, vanilla extract, and black food coloring to the egg mixture and whisk to combine.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until light and fluffy.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the entire cake evenly.
How to Serve Black Velvet Cake
Serve Black Velvet Cake at room temperature. It can be sliced and plated for individual servings. You can also garnish it with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a more decorative touch.
How to Store Black Velvet Cake
Store any leftover Black Velvet Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Tips to Make Black Velvet Cake
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a lighter cake.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
Variation
For a unique twist, you can add some espresso powder to enhance the coffee flavor. You can also experiment with different flavorings in the frosting, like adding cocoa powder or a hint of almond extract.
FAQs
Can I make Black Velvet Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance. Once they are cool, wrap them tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer.
Can I use regular food coloring instead of black food coloring?
While you can use regular food coloring, it may not produce the same deep, dark color that black food coloring provides. You might need to use a larger quantity, which can alter the taste.
Is Black Velvet Cake suitable for special diets?
This recipe contains dairy and eggs; however, you can make substitutions such as using plant-based milk and egg replacers to cater to vegan diets.
