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Black Velvet Halloween Cake

A dramatic, chocolate-flavored cake with a spooky black color perfect for Halloween, balanced with cream cheese buttercream for a moist and delicious treat.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Halloween
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 2 cups cake flour Use cake flour for best texture
  • 1 cup buttermilk Can substitute with milk + vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Can use dark Dutch cocoa for richer flavor
  • 1 cup vegetable oil For moisture
  • 4 large eggs Can substitute with egg replacement for allergies
  • 1 teaspoon black gel food coloring For the black color, or use activated charcoal
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese Softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sifted for smooth texture
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together cake flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, buttermilk, and black gel coloring until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
Assembly
  1. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
  2. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
  3. Decorate as desired with spooky toppers or candies.

Notes

Prep pans with parchment for easy release. If using food coloring, wear gloves to prevent stains. Cake layers can be chilled before frosting for easier handling.