Description
A deeply rich, moist, and velvety chocolate cake with an enchanting dark color and intense cocoa flavor—perfect for Halloween or any dramatic dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups chocolate frosting (optional)
- Black food coloring (optional for extra “black magic” effect)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, coffee, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. Batter will be thin.
- Add a few drops of black food coloring if a darker color is desired.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes completely on wire racks.
- Frost with chocolate frosting and decorate as desired.
Notes
- Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and won’t make the cake taste like coffee.
- Use dark cocoa powder for the deepest color and richest taste.
- This cake stays incredibly moist for days—perfect for making ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American