Luxurious Black Velvet Cake is a show-stopping dessert that is both ultra-moist and richly chocolatey. Made with black cocoa powder, this cake features a naturally deep black color, making it visually stunning. Frosted with silky dark chocolate buttercream, this indulgent cake is perfect for any celebration. Whether you’re planning a birthday party or an elegant dinner, this cake will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Luxurious Black Velvet Cake
This exquisite cake is not just about looks; it also delivers on flavor. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this dessert:
- It offers a rich and decadent flavor profile that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
- Its moist texture makes it a delight in every bite, making it an ideal choice for special occasions.
- This cake is perfect for celebrations, ensuring your event is memorable.
- Easy to make, it’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a gourmet dessert without the fuss.
- The combination of black cocoa powder and dark chocolate creates a unique taste.
- This cake is versatile; it can be served alone or adorned with various toppings.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to create an elegant centerpiece for your dessert table.
Ingredients for Luxurious Black Velvet Cake
Gather these items:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (80g) black cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee or hot water
- For frosting: 2 cups (454g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup (100g) black cocoa powder
- 5 cups (625g) powdered sugar
- 2/3 cup (160ml) heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/3 cups (230g) dark chocolate chips, melted and cooled
How to Make Luxurious Black Velvet Cake Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans. Whisk together flour, sugar, black cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- Step 2: In another bowl, mix oil, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then slowly stir in hot coffee until smooth. Divide batter into pans and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Step 3: For frosting, beat butter until smooth. Add black cocoa, vanilla, and salt; mix on low. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, then mix in melted chocolate until fluffy.
- Step 4: Level cooled cake layers. Stack with frosting between layers, crumb coat, chill for 20 minutes, then apply the final smooth coat. Decorate as desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Luxurious Black Velvet Cake
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps the cake light and fluffy.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Best Ways to Serve Luxurious Black Velvet Cake
This cake is best served with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
- Fresh berries to add a touch of tartness.
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
How to Store and Reheat Luxurious Black Velvet Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luxurious Black Velvet Cake
What is black velvet cake?
Black velvet cake is a rich chocolate cake that is characterized by its deep black color, usually achieved through the use of black cocoa powder. It’s similar to red velvet cake but offers a more intense chocolate flavor.
Can I make Luxurious Black Velvet Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers ahead of time. Just ensure they are completely cooled before wrapping them in plastic wrap and storing them in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the layers for up to three months.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Luxurious Black Velvet Cake?
To avoid common mistakes, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately and mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Additionally, always check for doneness with a toothpick.
Variations of Luxurious Black Velvet Cake You Can Try
Here are some delicious variations:
- For a creamier flavor, try adding a cream cheese frosting.
- Explore vegan black velvet cake variations by substituting eggs with flax seeds and using plant-based milk.
- If gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Baked Pears with Feta and Honey or try making Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies for a festive treat. If you’re looking for a savory option, our Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a must-try!
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Luxurious Black Velvet Cake: 7 Indulgent Secrets
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This luxurious black velvet cake is ultra-moist, richly chocolatey, and naturally deep black from black cocoa powder, frosted with silky dark chocolate buttercream for a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (80g) black cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee or hot water
- For frosting: 2 cups (454g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup (100g) black cocoa powder
- 5 cups (625g) powdered sugar
- 2/3 cup (160ml) heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/3 cups (230g) dark chocolate chips, melted and cooled
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans. Whisk together flour, sugar, black cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- In another bowl, mix oil, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then slowly stir in hot coffee until smooth. Divide batter into pans and bake 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- For frosting, beat butter until smooth. Add black cocoa, vanilla, and salt; mix on low. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, then mix in melted chocolate until fluffy.
- Level cooled cake layers. Stack with frosting between layers, crumb coat, chill 20 minutes, then apply final smooth coat. Decorate as desired.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 75g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
