Hello, chocolate lovers! If you’re a fan of rich, decadent desserts, this Double Chocolate Cake with Black Velvet Icing is going to be your new favorite treat. With layers of moist, fudgy chocolate cake and a silky-smooth chocolate fudge frosting, this recipe is perfect for celebrations or simply indulging your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this chocolate masterpiece!
Introduction
Chocolate cake is a universal symbol of indulgence, and this Double Chocolate Cake with Black Velvet Icing takes it to the next level. The cake features an ultra-moist texture, thanks to a unique combination of mayonnaise and hot coffee, while the fudge frosting provides a glossy, luxurious finish. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or any special occasion, this dessert is sure to steal the spotlight. Prepare to impress with a dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups (230g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
- 1 cup (100g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (205g) dark brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1/2 cup (108g) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (230g) mayonnaise
- 3 whole eggs plus 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup (128g) milk
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240g) hot coffee (or 1 cup hot water mixed with 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder)
For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
- 2 cups (450g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups (165g) powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of kosher salt
- 3/4 cup (177g) warm water
- 3/4 cup (75g) Dutch process cocoa powder (or unsweetened cocoa powder)
- 10 oz dark chocolate chips (one bag), melted and slightly cooled
How to Make Double Chocolate Cake with Black Velvet Icing
Chocolate Cake Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease three 8-inch cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Optionally, use damp cake strips for even baking.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a measuring cup, mix the milk, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Allow this mixture to sit while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Mix Sugars and Fat: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs and egg yolk to the wet mixture, mixing until fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in half of the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk mixture. Mix until smooth.
- Add Coffee: Slowly whisk in the hot coffee or espresso mixture, followed by the remaining dry ingredients. The batter will be thin but smooth.
- Divide and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few crumbs.
- Cool Completely: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting
- Cream the Butter: Beat the butter in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sweeteners and Flavorings: Mix in the powdered sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Cocoa Mixture: Dissolve the cocoa powder in warm water, then mix it into the frosting base.
- Add Melted Chocolate: Stir in the melted dark chocolate chips and beat until smooth and glossy.
- Chill if Necessary: If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate for 45 minutes. Stir it before spreading to ensure smoothness.
Assembling the Cake
- Level the Cake Layers: Use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cooled cake layers if necessary.
- Start Stacking: Place one cake layer on a cake turntable. Spread an even layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the second and third layers.
- Chill to Set: After stacking, refrigerate the cake for 20 minutes to set the layers.
- Frost the Entire Cake: Cover the cake completely with the remaining frosting, smoothing it with an offset spatula for a polished finish.
- Final Touches: Decorate as desired—add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or piped frosting for an elegant look.
- Serve and Enjoy: Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy the rich, chocolaty flavors!
Helpful Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all wet ingredients (butter, eggs, etc.) are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Parchment Lining: Lining your pans with parchment paper ensures easy release and prevents sticking.
- Espresso Boost: Use espresso powder for a deeper, richer chocolate flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of warm water at a time to achieve the desired consistency.
- Layer Stability: Use a cake dowel or skewers to stabilize tall cakes for easier slicing and serving.
- Chocolate Variations: Experiment with milk or white chocolate chips in the frosting for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this indulgent Double Chocolate Cake with Black Velvet Icing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added treat. It also pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Nutritional Information (per slice)
- Calories: 550
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 280mg
- Sugar: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Calcium: 5%
- Iron: 10%
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use only one type of sugar?
Yes, but using both granulated and brown sugar gives the cake a deeper flavor and moist texture.
Is mayonnaise necessary?
Absolutely! Mayonnaise adds moisture and richness without altering the flavor.
What if I don’t have three cake pans?
You can bake the layers in batches or use a larger pan and adjust the baking time.
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Conclusion
Decadent, rich, and absolutely indulgent, this Double Chocolate Cake with Black Velvet Icing is a showstopper for any occasion. With its moist chocolate layers and glossy fudge frosting, this dessert promises to impress. Bake it for a birthday, holiday, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth—you won’t regret it. Enjoy every bite!