Black Cocoa Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that showcases the deep, intense flavor of black cocoa powder. This cake is perfect for chocolate lovers and makes an impressive centerpiece for any celebration or special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup black cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting:

• 8 oz semisweet chocolate (chopped)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Timing

Making Black Cocoa Cake takes about 30 minutes for preparation and 30-35 minutes for baking, plus cooling time.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, black cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Divide Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Ganache Frosting

1. Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Melt Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.
3. Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the softened butter and vanilla extract until well combined. Let the ganache cool to room temperature until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Frost the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of ganache frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining ganache.
2. Chill: If desired, chill the cake for about 30 minutes to set the frosting.

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve it at room temperature. Enjoy the rich flavors of this decadent black cocoa cake!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Black Cocoa Cake (per slice, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	5g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	25g

Tips for Customization

• Add Coffee: Incorporate 1/2 cup of brewed coffee into the batter for a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Use Different Frosting: Try a cream cheese frosting or whipped cream for a lighter topping.
• Add Flavor: Experiment with adding a teaspoon of almond or orange extract to the batter for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Black Cocoa Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that highlights the unique flavor of black cocoa powder. Perfect for any chocolate lover, this cake is sure to impress with its deep color and intense chocolate taste. Enjoy this delightful recipe!