A rich, moist, and intensely chocolatey layer cake perfect for all occasions

Indulge in this decadent Black Chocolate Cake, made with deep Dutch-processed cocoa, moist buttermilk layers, and a luscious dark chocolate buttercream. The addition of hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor, making it a favorite for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you crave a bold and elegant dessert.

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🍫 Cake Overview

• Type: Layer cake

• Servings: 10–12

• Skill level: Intermediate

• Baking Time: 30–35 minutes

• Total Time: ~1.5 hours (including cooling and frosting)

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🧾 Ingredients

🔹 For the Cake:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred for deep color)

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1½ teaspoons baking powder

• 1½ teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar, mixed and rested for 5 minutes)

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 cup boiling water or hot coffee (coffee enhances chocolate flavor)

🔹 For the Dark Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3½ cups powdered sugar

• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• ¼ cup heavy cream (plus more as needed)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

✅ Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.

2. Sift dry ingredients into a large mixing bowl: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Add wet ingredients to the dry mix: eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed until smooth and combined.

4. Incorporate boiling liquid: Slowly pour in the hot water or coffee. Mix carefully—the batter will be thin, which is expected.

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✅ Step 2: Bake the Cakes

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

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✅ Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. Beat softened butter in a large bowl until creamy and light in texture.

2. Gradually sift in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until incorporated.

3. Add the salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Increase to high speed and beat until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.

4. Adjust with more cream (for softer) or powdered sugar (for firmer) to achieve your desired consistency.

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✅ Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.

2. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

3. For a decorative finish, use a spatula to create swirls or pipe patterns on the surface.

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🍽️ Serving & Storage Tips

• Garnish with chocolate shavings, berries, or edible gold dust for an elegant presentation.

• Serve at room temperature with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or red wine.

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

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Final Thoughts

This Black Chocolate Cake delivers a deep, sophisticated flavor with moist layers and a smooth, rich frosting. Whether served at a formal celebration or enjoyed as a weeknight indulgence, this cake is sure to become a go-to favorite for chocolate lovers.