Description
An intensely chocolatey cake with silky mascarpone frosting, perfect for celebrations and gatherings. This recipe yields a beautifully balanced flavor with striking color.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (65 g) black cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream, chilled (for frosting)
- 1 cup (250 g) mascarpone cheese, chilled
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, black cocoa, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the oil, melted butter, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, whip the chilled mascarpone, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
- Spread the mascarpone frosting between the cooled layers and on top and sides of the cake.
- Chill briefly to firm the frosting before slicing and serving.
Notes
Serve slightly chilled for the best texture. Add fresh berries for contrast, and dust lightly with cocoa for an elegant finish.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American