Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
Are you a chocolate lover seeking the ultimate dessert experience? Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, rich, and decadent cake that combines the deep flavors of cocoa with the smoothness of cream cheese frosting. Meet the Black Velvet Cake, a dessert that redefines luxury and indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this cake will captivate your senses and leave you longing for more. Let’s dive into the world of this heavenly treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake Layers:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For Decoration:
- Dark chocolate shavings
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions to Make the Perfect Black Velvet Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. If you have parchment paper, cut out circles to fit the bottom of each pan and place them in the pans. This helps in easy removal of the cake layers.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. This dry mix is the base of your rich, chocolatey cake layers.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Use a hand mixer on medium speed or a stand mixer to blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Incorporate the Boiling Water
Slowly add the boiling water to the batter, mixing it in as you pour. The batter will be thin, but don’t worry—this is what makes the cake layers moist and fluffy. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and heavy cream. Beat on high for about 2 minutes to make the frosting light and fluffy.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Place the first cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting over it. Add the second cake layer and spread more frosting on top. Finally, place the third cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with a generous amount of frosting.
Step 8: Decorate
Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings over the top of the cake and lightly dust with cocoa powder. For an elegant touch, you can pipe swirls of frosting around the edges and top with more chocolate shavings.
Step 9: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving to let the frosting set. Slice, serve, and enjoy the blissful taste of this Black Velvet Cake!
Notes
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Storing: This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
- Freezing: You can freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different frosting instead of cream cheese? A: Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting complements the rich chocolate flavor, you can use buttercream or even ganache for a different twist.
Q: What can I use instead of vegetable oil? A: You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Q: How do I ensure my cake layers are even? A: Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly between the cake pans. You can also use a serrated knife to level the cakes once they’re baked.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free? A: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
For more delicious recipes like this, check out our No-Bake M&M’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs.
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