Luxurious Black Velvet Cake Recipe
This Luxurious Black Velvet Cake is a stunning variation of the classic red velvet, featuring a deep black hue enhanced by cocoa powder and optional black food coloring. Moist layers of cocoa-infused cake are beautifully complemented by a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting. Decorated with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, and optional edible gold leaf, this dessert makes an elegant and indulgent centerpiece for any special occasion.
- Author: Douaa
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1 tbsp black food coloring (optional, for extra “black” look)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Decoration (optional):
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder
- Fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries)
- Edible gold leaf (for an extra luxurious touch)
- Prepare the Cake Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and thoroughly combined.
- Add Boiling Water and Food Coloring: Gradually pour in the boiling water; the batter will be thin which is expected. If desired, add black food coloring and mix until the color is evenly distributed.
- Bake the Cakes: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well between additions. Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate and generously spread cream cheese frosting over the top. Repeat with remaining layers, stacking and frosting the top and sides evenly.
- Smooth the Frosting: Use a spatula or cake scraper to smooth the frosting for a polished, clean look.
- Decorate: Garnish the cake with optional chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, fresh berries, or edible gold leaf for a luxurious finish.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing. Serve and enjoy this decadent treat!
Notes
- The black food coloring is optional but recommended for achieving an intense black color.
- Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- For best results, use room temperature ingredients when making the frosting.
- This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Let the cake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
- If you prefer, substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a slightly tangier cake flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 38 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: black velvet cake, chocolate cake, cream cheese frosting, luxurious cake, moist chocolate cake, elegant dessert, layered cake