Black Velvet Cake – Rich, Moist & Naturally Dark with Black Cocoa

Introduction

The first time I made black velvet cake, I wanted something decadent, elegant, and unique—a cake that wasn’t just delicious but also visually stunning. I had always loved red velvet cake, but the idea of a deep, naturally black chocolate cake intrigued me. When I discovered black cocoa powder, I knew I had to try it.

This cake has the richness of chocolate, the soft, velvety texture of red velvet, and a striking black color without artificial food coloring. Perfect for Halloween, gothic-themed parties, or anyone who loves bold desserts, this black velvet cake is a true showstopper!

Why You’ll Love This Black Velvet Cake

✔️ Naturally Black Color – Thanks to black cocoa powder, no artificial coloring is needed!
✔️ Ultra-Moist & Fluffy – The secret? Buttermilk and oil create a perfect texture.
✔️ Rich Chocolate Flavor – Tastes like an Oreo cookie in cake form!
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for Halloween, birthdays, or gothic weddings.

Ingredients for Black Velvet Cake

For the Cake Layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup black cocoa powder (or dark cocoa powder)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup hot water
• 2 tsp instant espresso powder (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Black Chocolate Frosting:

• 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup black cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• ⅔ cup heavy cream
• 1 ⅓ cups melted dark chocolate

Step-by-Step: How to Make Black Velvet Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix hot water and espresso powder until dissolved.
4. Add buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the espresso mixture and stir well.
5. Slowly combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

1. Divide batter evenly between the cake pans.
2. Bake for 24-27 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
4. Once fully cooled, use a serrated knife to level the cake layers for even stacking.

Step 3: Make the Black Chocolate Frosting

1. In a stand mixer, beat butter until smooth.
2. Add black cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing on low.
3. Slowly mix in powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream.
4. Mix in melted dark chocolate, stirring until silky smooth.
5. If needed, add black gel food coloring to deepen the color.

Step 4: Assemble & Frost the Cake

1. Place the first cake layer on a cake board and add a layer of frosting.
2. Repeat with the next layers, stacking evenly.
3. Apply a crumb coat (thin layer of frosting) and chill for 10 minutes.
4. Spread a final thick layer of frosting, smoothing with a bench scraper.
5. Decorate with black sprinkles, edible glitter, or a dark chocolate ganache drizzle.

Best Serving & Storage Tips

🍰 Chill Before Serving – Helps intensify flavors and makes slicing easier.
❄️ Store in the Fridge – Keeps fresh for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
🧊 Freeze for Later – Wrap cake layers separately and freeze for up to 3 months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Using Regular Cocoa Powder – It won’t give the same deep color or Oreo-like taste.
🚫 Skipping Buttermilk – Essential for that moist and tender texture.
🚫 Not Leveling Cake Layers – Makes stacking uneven and frosting harder to spread.

FAQs About Black Velvet Cake

1. What makes black velvet cake different from chocolate cake?

It uses black cocoa powder, which gives it a darker color and Oreo-like taste, plus buttermilk for a velvety texture.

2. Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of black cocoa?

Yes, but the color will be lighter, and the flavor less intense. Adding black gel food coloring helps.

3. What frosting goes best with black velvet cake?

Black chocolate frosting keeps the dramatic look, but cream cheese frosting is also a delicious choice!

4. How do I make this cake extra black?

Use black cocoa powder and, if needed, a drop of black gel food coloring in the frosting.

5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the layers in advance, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This black velvet cake is a bold, stunning, and delicious twist on classic velvet cake. With its moist, rich texture and deep chocolate flavor, it’s perfect for special occasions, Halloween, or anytime you want a dramatic dessert. Try this recipe today and impress everyone with this dark and decadent masterpiece!

• Love chocolate cakes? Try this Hot Fudge Brownie Bread!
• Looking for a unique cookie? Check out Cotton Candy Cookies!
• Need a fun breakfast idea? Don’t miss Hawaiian Roll French Toast!