Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

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

Prepare the Cake Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.

Stir in the black food coloring gel until the batter is evenly colored.

Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, mixing until well combined and smooth. The batter will be thin.

Bake the Cake:

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

Add the vanilla extract and beat until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake:

Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.

Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the first layer.

Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate (Optional):

Garnish the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or any other decorations of your choice.

Serve:

Slice and serve the Black Velvet Cake. Enjoy the rich chocolate flavor with a striking black appearance!