1. Make the Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, black cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition until just combined.
- Add Vinegar and Food Coloring: Stir in the white vinegar and red food coloring (if using) until the color is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatizer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Trim the Cakes: If the cakes have domed on top, trim them with a serrated knife to create flat surfaces.
- Frost the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Place the second layer on top, and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake smoothly.
4. Serving:
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving to allow the frosting to set.
- Decorate: Optionally, you can garnish the cake with chocolate shavings, blackberries, or dust with additional cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
Tips for Success:
- Black Cocoa Powder: This ingredient is key for achieving the distinctive dark color and deep chocolate flavor. It can be found at specialty baking stores or online.
- Buttermilk Substitution: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Keep Ingredients at Room Temperature: This helps to ensure that the cake mixes together evenly and rises properly.
Black Velvet Cake is not just a treat for the eyes but also offers a rich, decadent flavor that’s perfect for any chocolate lover. Its striking appearance makes it especially popular for celebrations and festive occasions. Enjoy your delicious creation!