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Delicious slice of Black Velvet Cake with cream cheese frosting on a plate
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Black Velvet Cake

A rich chocolate cake with a luxurious texture, topped with creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Black Velvet Cake, Chocolate Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Recipe, Easy Cake
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

For the cake

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Forms the structure of the cake.
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and enhances the texture.
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Brings rich chocolate flavor.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder Provides lift for a fluffy cake.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda Works with baking powder for a soft texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Adds moisture and a subtle tang.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Keeps the cake tender.
  • 2 large eggs Provides richness and binds ingredients.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds depth to flavor.
  • 1 cup brewed strong coffee, cooled Intensifies chocolate flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon black food coloring (optional) Deepens color for presentation.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Rich tanginess for frosting.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds richness and texture.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances frosting flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
  • In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla, and cooled brewed coffee until well blended.

Baking

  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Stir in black food coloring if using.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting

  • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy and well combined. Mix in vanilla extract.

Assembly

  • Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
  • Top with the second layer of cake and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
  • Decorate as desired with chocolate shavings, fruit, or nuts.

Serve

  • Slice and serve the cake, enjoying the rich layers enhanced by the cream cheese frosting.

Notes

Ensure ingredients are room temperature for best texture. Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light. Use freshly brewed coffee for the best chocolate flavor.