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Decadent Black Velvet Layer Cake Recipe with Easy Charcoal Cream Cheese Frosting

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A rich, moist black velvet layer cake with a unique charcoal cream cheese frosting that offers a subtle smoky earthiness, perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups (320g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon black food coloring gel
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 teaspoons activated charcoal powder, food-grade
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
  3. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and black food coloring gel until smooth.
  4. Slowly pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.
  5. Divide batter evenly between pans, tap pans to release air bubbles, and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto cooling racks and remove parchment paper. Cool completely.
  7. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and charcoal powder, beating until fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and salt.
  8. Place one cake layer on a plate, spread ½ cup frosting evenly on top. Add second layer and frost top and sides with remaining frosting.
  9. Chill cake in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use black food coloring gel for the best deep black color. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the crumb tender. Chill the cake after frosting to set the frosting and prevent sliding. For a softer frosting color, whisk in a spoonful of cream or milk. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: black velvet cake, charcoal frosting, cream cheese frosting, layer cake, easy cake recipe, decadent dessert, smoky frosting

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/decadent-black-velvet-layer-cake-recipe-with-easy-charcoal-cream-cheese-frosting/