Spooky Black Velvet Cake

why make this recipe

Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake is a fun and delicious treat perfect for Halloween celebrations. It offers a unique twist on the classic red velvet cake, turning it into a hauntingly delightful dessert. The deep black color not only looks amazing but also adds a rich and intense chocolate flavor. Plus, it’s topped with a creamy frosting, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any spooky gathering.

how to make Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake

Ingredients:

• 2 cups White granulated sugar
• 2 cups All purpose flour (sifted)
• 3/4 cup Black cocoa powder (sifted)
• 2 tsp Baking soda
• 1 tsp Baking powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 2 Eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup Buttermilk (room temperature)
• 1 cup Coffee (hot)
• 1/2 cup Canola oil
• 2 tsp Vanilla extract
• 2 cups Fresh blackberries
• 2 tbsp White granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Lemon zest
• 1 Cinnamon stick
• 1/4 cup Water
• 1 tbsp Cornstarch
• 8 oz Cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cups Powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 cup Black cocoa powder (sifted)
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• Chocolate skulls (for decoration)
• Fresh blackberries (for decoration)
• Dried rose petals (for decoration)

Directions:

1. Black Velvet Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix together the sugar, flour, black cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, hot coffee, canola oil, and vanilla extract together. Combine both mixtures, stirring until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

2. Blackberry Compote: In a saucepan, combine the fresh blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, cinnamon stick, and water. Cook over medium heat until the blackberries soften and the mixture thickens. Stir in cornstarch to thicken further. Remove from heat and let cool.

3. Black Cocoa Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, black cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.

4. Assembly: Once the cakes are cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of blackberry compote on top, then add some frosting. Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the entire cake with the black cocoa frosting. Decorate with chocolate skulls, fresh blackberries, and dried rose petals.

how to serve Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake

Serve the Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake sliced, with additional blackberry compote drizzled on top for a special touch. This cake is perfect for Halloween parties or any festive occasion. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

how to store Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

tips to make Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Don’t skip sifting the cocoa powder and flour for a lighter cake.
• When frosting the cake, use a spatula to create swirls for a spooky effect.
• Use fresh blackberries to add a pop of color and freshness.

variation

You can substitute the black cocoa powder with regular cocoa powder for a lighter color and flavor. Additionally, if you wish to make it a layered dessert, consider adding a layer of whipped cream and more fresh berries between the cake layers.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just frost before serving.

Is black cocoa powder different from regular cocoa powder?

Yes, black cocoa powder is more intense in flavor and color. It gives the cake its unique dark appearance.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! You can use any frosting you like, such as buttercream or cream cheese frosting, but the black cocoa frosting is perfect for this cake’s theme.