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Black velvet cake 2025 12 09 090335 150x150

Black Velvet Cake

A rich and decadent dessert featuring a unique flavor from cocoa and coffee, perfect for special occasions.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the cake

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • cup dark brown sugar (packed)
  • cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ cup black cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch process)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • cup buttermilk
  • cup sour cream
  • 1 cup hot coffee

For the frosting

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • cup black cocoa powder
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 1 ¼ cups milk
  • 1 ½ cups unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 dash salt

Instructions
 

Cake Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and vegetable oil until combined.
  • Add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating well until smooth.
  • In another bowl, combine the black cocoa, unsweetened cocoa, flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and sour cream. Mix until well combined.
  • Stir in the hot coffee until the batter is smooth.
  • Pour the batter into greased cake pans.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool.

Frosting Preparation

  • In a medium saucepan, mix the granulated sugar, black cocoa powder, and flour.
  • Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly over medium heat until thickened.
  • Allow to cool, then beat in the softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Serving

  • Serve the Black Velvet Cake sliced, with a generous layer of frosting on top.
  • You can also add fresh fruit, such as berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra presentation.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. Can be frozen for up to three months.
Keyword Black Velvet Cake, Chocolate Cake, coffee cake, decadent dessert, special occasions