Indulge in the luxurious allure of Black Velvet Cake, a stunning dessert that combines deep, rich chocolate flavor with a dramatic black hue. This cake is not only visually captivating but also incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the combination of buttermilk, vegetable oil, and butter. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress, this cake is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. Its soft, velvety crumb and intense chocolate flavor make it an unforgettable treat.
What sets Black Velvet Cake apart is its unique use of black cocoa powder, which deepens the color and enhances the chocolatey profile. A hint of buttermilk adds a tangy twist, balancing the sweetness while ensuring every bite is melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Whether layered with a creamy frosting or served as is, this cake promises to be the showstopper of any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Stunning Appearance: The dramatic black color makes it an elegant centerpiece.
• Moist and Tender: Buttermilk, oil, and butter combine for unparalleled texture.
• Customizable: Pair with cream cheese frosting, vanilla buttercream, or a drizzle of ganache for added flair.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons black cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Black food coloring gel or paste (as needed)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
• In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter, ensuring a tender crumb.
• Add the vegetable oil and mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and white vinegar.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, black cocoa powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5: Mix Batter
• Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
• Add black food coloring, a few drops at a time, mixing until the desired shade is achieved.
Step 6: Bake
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
• Frost with cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream for a classic pairing.
• Add a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent touch.
• Decorate with edible gold flakes or fresh berries for an elegant presentation.
Storage
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This Black Velvet Cake will surely become a staple for your most memorable celebrations!
