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Black Velvet Cake Recipe Moist Dramatic Dessert
Emily

Black Velvet Cake

A rich, dramatic twist on the classic red velvet cake, this Black Velvet Cake is deeply chocolaty with the unique flavor of black cocoa. Soft, moist, and perfect for special occasions or a gothic-inspired dessert table.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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 tbsp black cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • black food coloring (gel or paste)

Equipment

  • 2 round 9-inch cake pans
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, black cocoa, unsweetened cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Mix in buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and vinegar until combined.
  6. Gradually add dry mixture to wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  7. Stir in black food coloring until batter reaches desired shade.
  8. Divide batter evenly into pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
  9. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality black cocoa powder and gel-based food coloring to achieve a deep, intense black color. Pair with cream cheese frosting or dark chocolate ganache for contrast. Cakes can be baked ahead and stored wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days.