Black Velvet Cake is an elegant and indulgent dessert that takes the classic chocolate layer cake to a whole new level. With its deep, dark hue and irresistibly moist texture, this cake is a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. Topped with luscious chocolate ganache and fresh berries, it’s a stunning choice for celebrations or any time you crave something truly decadent. The velvety crumb combined with a rich flavor profile makes this cake a standout among chocolate desserts.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup hot coffee
1 teaspoon black gel food coloring (optional, for a deeper color)
For the Baileys Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons Baileys Irish Cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For Decoration:
Fresh berries (raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries)
Chocolate shavings
Instructions
Prepare the Cake:
Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, oil, eggs, vanilla, and black food coloring until smooth.
Prepare Batter: Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, then stir in the hot coffee until fully combined.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting:
Whip the Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy.
Add Flavor: Mix in powdered sugar, Baileys Irish Cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Prepare the Ganache:
Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until simmering.
Melt Chocolate: Pour over chopped chocolate and butter. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
Assemble the Cake:
Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of Baileys cream cheese frosting, and repeat with remaining layers.
Add Ganache: Pour the slightly cooled ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides.
Decorate: Garnish with fresh berries and chocolate shavings.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling & Assembly: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours
Baking Pro Tips
Use high-quality cocoa powder: This enhances the deep chocolate flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of velvety.
Chill the frosting before layering: It makes spreading easier and prevents slipping.
Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring: This ensures a smooth, thick consistency.
Add black food coloring: It gives the cake a striking dark color without altering the flavor.
Black Velvet Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers who crave something rich, moist, and visually striking. With its luscious Baileys cream cheese frosting and glossy chocolate ganache, every bite is pure bliss. Whether for a special occasion or a personal indulgence, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy any chocolate craving.