🍫 Black Midnight Cake 🍰
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably dark cocoa)
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice, let sit for 5 minutes)
1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled (or hot water)
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup heavy cream (or milk)
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the buttermilk, cooled coffee, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Create the Batter:
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. The batter will be thin, which is normal.
Bake the Cakes:
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium-high speed until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly. Use a spatula or piping bag to create decorative swirls or patterns, if desired.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice and serve this decadent cake at room temperature. Pair it with a glass of milk or coffee for the ultimate treat!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Baking Time: 30-35 minutes | Cooling Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12