Black Velvet Cake

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Black Velvet Cake

There’s something magical about a slice of cake enjoyed on a cozy evening, perhaps with a cup of tea, the scent of vanilla still lingering in the kitchen. And while red velvet cake often steals the spotlight, there’s a darker, richer, and more mysterious version waiting to become your new favorite: Black Velvet Cake. This cake isn’t just visually striking—it’s indulgent, deeply chocolaty, and soft as velvet.

Inspired by gothic elegance and culinary curiosity, this recipe transforms a traditional Southern dessert into a bold statement. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a dessert that stands out from the crowd, Black Velvet Cake delivers a rich, unforgettable experience that feels both familiar and extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Black Velvet Cake

A Bold Visual Statement

The deep black hue of this cake isn’t just for show—it evokes drama and elegance, making it perfect for themed events, romantic dinners, or a spooky-chic Halloween spread. With the right black cocoa and food coloring, it achieves a stunning intensity that’s sure to wow your guests.

A Perfectly Balanced Flavor

Black cocoa powder creates a uniquely smooth chocolate flavor—less bitter than traditional cocoa, with notes reminiscent of Oreos. Combined with a touch of tang from the buttermilk and vinegar, and rounded out by sweet vanilla, the result is a beautifully balanced cake that isn’t overpoweringly rich but undeniably satisfying.

Soft and Moist Texture

Thanks to the combination of buttermilk, vegetable oil, and butter, the texture is moist, fluffy, and tender with every bite. This cake slices easily, holds its shape well, and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead events.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin baking, gather the following ingredients. Many are pantry staples, while a few—like black cocoa powder—might require a specialty store or online order. But trust us, the result is more than worth it.

  • 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 recommended for best color payoff)

🔍 Tip: Don’t substitute regular cocoa for black cocoa. Black cocoa has been heavily alkalized, resulting in its signature smoothness and jet-black color. It’s worth tracking down for this recipe!

How to Make Black Velvet Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy release. This helps maintain the integrity of your cake layers when it’s time to stack and frost.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

  • All-purpose flour
  • Black cocoa powder
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Set aside. This ensures all dry ingredients are evenly distributed before combining with the wet mixture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Oil, and Sugar

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