Black Velvet Cake Recipe – Moist, Soft & Chocolatey
Ever wondered how to make a cake that is both elegant and irresistibly soft? The Black Velvet Cake recipe is a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolatey flavor with a smooth, velvety texture. Unlike traditional chocolate cakes, this cake has a deep, dark appearance that makes it ideal for celebrations or simply treating yourself at home.
Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a special occasion, or a cozy weekend at home, this moist black velvet cake recipe will impress everyone. With just the right amount of sweetness, and a soft crumb that melts in your mouth, it’s a cake that’s hard to forget.
How to Make Black Velvet Cake?
Making a Black Velvet Cake is easier than it sounds. Think of it as a friendly conversation while baking you just follow the steps carefully, and soon, your kitchen will be filled with a delightful chocolate aroma.

Start by preparing your dry ingredients separately from the wet ones. This ensures a smooth batter without lumps. Mix gently but thoroughly to maintain the cake’s soft texture. And remember, the oven’s temperature and baking time are key to achieving that perfect moist crumb.
Ingredients for This Recipe
Here’s what you need to create this scrumptious cake:
- 1 and ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 and ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot brewed coffee or hot water
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips for extra richness
Easy Black Velvet Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Baking Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures no lumps and even distribution of ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add Hot Coffee: Slowly pour in hot coffee and mix until the batter is smooth. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and gives the cake a deeper black color.
Step 6: Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and helps the cake maintain its structure.
Step 8: Frost and Serve: Once cooled, frost your cake with cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or buttercream. Slice and enjoy a moist, chocolatey delight.

Tips and Variations
- Extra Moisture: Replace coffee with warm milk for a milder flavor.
- Flavor Twist: Add 1 tsp espresso powder for a richer taste.
- Decor Ideas: Top with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or edible gold dust for a premium look.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use almond or rice flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 5 g
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake without eggs?
A: Yes, use an egg substitute like applesauce or a commercial egg replacer to make it vegan-friendly.
Q: How do I store the cake?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Q: Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
A: Yes, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar to make a buttermilk substitute.
Conclusion
The Black Velvet Cake recipe is not only visually stunning but also deliciously moist and flavorful. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced one, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a cake that everyone will love. Treat yourself, your family, or your guests to this decadent delight and make every occasion a little more special.
Black Velvet Cake Recipe – Moist, Soft & Chocolatey
Course: Dessert, CakeCuisine: Western / International / BakingDifficulty: Easy12 slices
servings20
minutes35
minutes320 kcal
kcalLearn how to make a moist, rich Black Velvet Cake with a soft, chocolatey crumb. Perfect for birthdays or special occasions.
Ingredients
1 and ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 and ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 and ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup hot brewed coffee or hot water
Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips for extra richness
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures no lumps and even distribution of ingredients.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Add Hot Coffee: Slowly pour in hot coffee and mix until the batter is smooth. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and gives the cake a deeper black color.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and helps the cake maintain its structure.
- Frost and Serve: Once cooled, frost your cake with cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or buttercream. Slice and enjoy a moist, chocolatey delight.
Notes
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Do not overbake; it dries the cake. Start checking a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
- Hot coffee is optional but recommended for the dark, rich color and enhanced flavor.