Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake
This rich, moist cake is perfect for October celebrations and loved by both kids and adults. Easy to make and fun to decorate.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature No buttermilk? Mix 1 tablespoon vinegar with 1 cup milk.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water Richer flavor: Replace part of boiling water with hot coffee.
- Black food coloring (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch pans.
- Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix together oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Stir in boiling water. Add black food coloring if using.
- Divide batter evenly into the prepared pans.
Baking
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Frosting
- Frost the cake once it is completely cooled.
Notes
Cake is ready when it springs back lightly when touched. Add 1 tablespoon espresso powder for deeper chocolate taste.