Black Velvet Cake – A Dramatic, Moist Dessert

With its bold black crumb, tender texture, and rich chocolate flavor, this cake brings gothic elegance to any dessert table. Perfect for birthdays, themed parties, weddings, or whenever you want a showstopper.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup buttermilk

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tbsp black cocoa powder

• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tbsp white vinegar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Black food coloring gel or paste (to deepen the shade)

Equipment

• 2 round 9-inch cake pans

• Mixing bowls

• Hand mixer or stand mixer

• Whisk

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Cooling rack

‍ Method

1. Prepare the Pans

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

   • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, black cocoa, unsweetened cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Cream Butter & Sugar

   • In another bowl, beat butter and sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy.

4. Add Wet Ingredients

   • Mix in eggs one at a time.

   • Add buttermilk, oil, vanilla, and vinegar, blending until smooth.

5. Combine Batter

   • Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

   • Stir in black food coloring until the batter reaches a deep, jet-black shade.

6. Bake

   • Divide the batter evenly into the two pans.

   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Cool

   • Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.

   • Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Pro Tips

• Use gel or paste food coloring for a rich black—liquid dye may alter texture.

• Do not overmix once dry and wet ingredients are combined.

• Trim domed tops for perfectly stackable layers.

• Start checking doneness at 25 minutes—every oven is different.

• Always cool completely before frosting.

Frosting Ideas

• Cream cheese frosting (classic tangy balance)

• Dark chocolate buttercream (decadent & rich)

• Whipped ganache (silky smooth)

• White frosting (for dramatic contrast)

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Store frosted cake in an airtight container in the fridge up to 5 days.

• Freeze unfrosted layers (well wrapped) for up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight before decorating.

Serving Suggestions

• Decorate with edible gold leaf, fresh berries, or powdered sugar for a luxe touch.

• Pair with espresso, coffee, or cold milk for the ultimate indulgence.

• Bake as cupcakes (18–20 minutes) for individual servings.

⚫ Black Velvet Cake is a modern, gothic twist on classic red velvet—perfect for Halloween, weddings, or any celebration that calls for something extraordinary.