Best Double Chocolate Cake with Black Velvet Icing

why make this recipe

This Best Double Chocolate Cake with Black Velvet Icing is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. It combines rich cocoa flavors with a moist cake and creamy frosting. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress. With its deep chocolate taste and stunning appearance, each bite is a celebration of chocolate goodness.

how to make Best Double Chocolate Cake

Ingredients

• 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, melted and slightly cooled

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare three 8-inch cake pans by greasing and lining them.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a measuring cup, combine the milk, vinegar, and vanilla.
4. In a large bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and mayonnaise until smooth. Add the eggs and egg yolk and mix well.
5. Stir in the milk mixture, followed by the dry ingredients. Gradually add the hot coffee and mix until smooth.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for a bit, then remove them and cool completely on a wire rack.
8. For the frosting, beat the butter until smooth, then mix in the powdered sugar, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt.
9. Dissolve the cocoa powder in warm water and add it to the frosting mixture. Stir in the melted chocolate and mix until fully combined. Chill the frosting if needed to thicken.
10. Level the cake layers if necessary, then stack and frost the cakes. Chill the finished cake before serving. Slice and enjoy!

how to serve Best Double Chocolate Cake

Serve this cake chilled or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain or add extra chocolate shavings or berries on top for garnish. This cake pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence.

how to store Best Double Chocolate Cake

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This cake lasts up to a week, but it is at its best within the first few days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying.

tips to make Best Double Chocolate Cake

1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for best results, especially with dry ingredients.
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing.
3. Do Not Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the cake fluffy.
4. Cake Tester: Make sure to test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs.
5. Chill the Frosting: If your frosting is too soft, chilling it briefly will help it set up better for spreading.

variation

For a different flavor, try adding a teaspoon of mint extract for a mint chocolate twist or sprinkle some chocolate chips into the batter for extra chocolate bursts. You can also substitute half of the mayonnaise with yogurt for a lighter version.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of frosting?
Yes! You can use cream cheese frosting or a simple whipped cream for a lighter topping.

2. Is it necessary to use coffee in the recipe?
Using coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, but if you prefer, you can use hot water instead.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance. Just keep them wrapped tightly until you’re ready to frost them.