Name: Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups White granulated sugar; 2 cups All purpose flour, sifted; ¾ cup Black cocoa powder, sifted; 2 teaspoons Baking soda; 1 teaspoon Baking powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 2 Eggs, room temperature; 1 cup Buttermilk, room temperature; 1 cup Hot coffee; ½ cup Canola oil; 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract; 2 cups Fresh blackberries; 2 tablespoons White granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Lemon zest; 1 Cinnamon stick; ¼ cup Water; 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; 8 oz Cream cheese, softened; ½ cup Unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups Powdered sugar, sifted; 1 cup Black cocoa powder, sifted; ¼ teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; Chocolate skulls; Fresh blackberries; Dried rose petals

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 29 reviews

If you are hunting for a dessert that captures the eerie spirit of Halloween but tastes divine enough to be a year-round favorite, then this Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake Recipe is your answer. This luscious two-layer cake boasts a velvety, moist crumb intensified by rich black cocoa and filled with a sweet, tangy blackberry compote. Topped with smooth black cocoa buttercream, fresh blackberries, and dramatic chocolate skulls, it’s a decadent treat that combines spooky aesthetics with seriously satisfying flavor. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or just want to indulge in something special, this cake will absolutely dazzle your taste buds and your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of various baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface; there are white bowls and small plates holding layers of different items, including a bowl piled high with dark brown cocoa powder at the center, next to a bowl of white powdered sugar with a textured, powdery surface; nearby a bowl of bright orange egg yolks in liquid form contrasts with a larger bowl full of white granulated sugar; stacked squares of dark chocolate cover a small white plate, while two plates hold rectangular blocks of pale yellow butter; smaller bowls contain pale beige flour, a mix of colorful orange, purple, and black sprinkles, and a dark liquid with a spoon; small round dishes hold white salt, baking soda, and more cocoa powder; the arrangement is surrounded by decorative black velvet pumpkin shapes; photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To get started on your Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake Recipe, you’ll only need everyday ingredients that come together to create extraordinary taste and texture. Each component plays a vital role—black cocoa powder gives that deep color and rich flavor, buttermilk and coffee ensure moistness and depth, and fresh blackberries add a burst of sweetness and tartness that keeps every bite intriguing.

White granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the bold flavors perfectly.
All purpose flour sifted: The cake’s sturdy structure depends on this essential base.
Black cocoa powder sifted: This unique cocoa is key for the intense dark color and chocolate richness.
Baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully and keeps it tender.
Baking powder: Gives a light, airy texture alongside baking soda.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
Eggs at room temperature: Add moisture and bind the ingredients together smoothly.
Buttermilk at room temperature: Tenderizes the crumb while adding subtle tanginess.
Hot coffee: Intensifies chocolate notes and makes the cake incredibly moist.
Canola oil: Keeps the cake soft and ensures a tender crumb without heaviness.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the deep chocolate tones beautifully.
Fresh blackberries: The star of the compote filling providing fresh sweetness and vibrant color.
White granulated sugar (for compote): Sweetens the berries while cooking.
Fresh lemon juice and zest: Brightens the compote’s flavor with a citrus kick.
Cinnamon stick: Adds subtle warmth and complexity.
Water: Helps create the perfect consistency for the compote.
Cornstarch: Thickens the compote to a luscious spread.
Cream cheese softened: Foundation for the frosting’s creamy richness.
Unsalted butter softened: Provides smooth texture and balances tanginess in frosting.
Powdered sugar sifted: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
Black cocoa powder sifted (for frosting): Ensures the frosting matches the cake’s dramatic black hue.
Salt (for frosting): Enhances the chocolate notes and balances sweetness.
Vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds depth and warmth to the buttercream.
Chocolate skulls, fresh blackberries, and dried rose petals: For stunning, spooky decoration finishing touches.

How to Make Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Bake the Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing two 8-inch cake pans with nonstick spray and parchment paper lining. Mixing dry ingredients—flour, black cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt—ensures they’re evenly distributed. In a separate bowl, whisk the wet ingredients: buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then finish by stirring in hot coffee, which magically intensifies the rich chocolate flavor while keeping the batter silky smooth. Pour the batter evenly into your pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cooling the cakes completely is essential before removing them from the pans for assembly.

Step 2: Make the Blackberry Compote Filling

The blackberry compote is what truly elevates this cake to a showstopper. Combine fresh blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 5-6 minutes to release the berries’ beautiful juices, then thicken with a mixture of water and cornstarch. Be patient as it thickens into a glossy, jammy filling that will add bursts of fresh berry flavor in every bite. Remove the cinnamon stick and chill the compote in the fridge for at least an hour to set the perfect consistency for spreading.

Step 3: Prepare the Black Cocoa Frosting

Now, for the gloriously rich frosting: beat softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, black cocoa powder, and salt, then whip on medium speed until the frosting is luscious and velvety. Finish with vanilla extract for a smooth flavor profile that perfectly complements the dark chocolate cake and vibrant berry filling. This frosting is as much a treat on its own as it is a beautiful finishing touch.

Step 4: Assemble Your Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake Recipe

Once your cake layers are cooled and leveled, spread a thin base layer of frosting on your cake plate to anchor the bottom layer. Place the first cake layer on top, pipe a frosting “dam” around the edge, then spread a generous layer of chilled blackberry compote inside. Add the second cake layer upside down to create a stable, flat surface for decorating. Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting to seal in the crumbs, refrigerate for 20 minutes, then frost fully with the remaining buttercream. Now comes the fun part—top the cake with chocolate skulls, plump fresh blackberries, and a scattering of dried rose petals for a dramatic yet elegant Halloween centerpiece.

How to Serve Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake Recipe

A single slice of black chocolate cake with two thick layers is shown on a white plate. The cake has a dark, rich texture with shiny black icing covering the top and sides. Between the layers, there is a bright red, glossy jelly-like filling. On top of the cake slice, there is a small, detailed dark chocolate skull decoration. A silver fork rests on the plate next to the cake, and there are scattered small red petals around the plate. The setting has a blurred warm background with a wooden surface and blackberries placed around the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Decorations can totally make your cake pop on the table, and for the Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake Recipe, chocolate skulls bring that perfect creepy-chic vibe. Fresh blackberries not only echo the filling but add a juicy freshness with every bite. A sprinkle of dried rose petals heightens the mystical aura and adds a touch of color contrast that’s visually stunning.

Side Dishes

This cake is rich and indulgent, so serving alongside lighter options like a crisp green apple salad or a bowl of fresh fruit can help balance the experience. For drinks, a robust cup of spiced black tea or a glass of red wine will perfectly complement the chocolate’s intensity and berry tang.

Creative Ways to Present

For a Halloween party, place the cake on a dark, rustic wooden stand surrounded by flickering candles and cobweb accents. You could even hollow out mini pumpkins to serve a small portion of the blackberry compote on the side, keeping that festive spirit alive. Presenting each slice on black plates with a drizzle of berry syrup will impress guests and make each serving a visual treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slices of Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake Recipe keep beautifully when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The frosting and compote stay fresh and moist, so you can enjoy this cake up to 4 days after baking without losing any of its decadent appeal.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this cake ahead of time or save some for later celebrations, freezing is a great option. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices securely in multiple layers of plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, preserving that velvety texture and bold flavors perfectly.

Reheating

While the cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer a slightly warmed slice, let it come to room temperature first and then microwave for 10-15 seconds. This gentle warming helps the chocolate flavour bloom without melting the frosting completely or making the cake dry.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of black cocoa powder?

Regular cocoa powder won’t give you that signature deep black color or the same intensity of flavor. Black cocoa powder is specially processed to be darker and more intense, which is essential for the spooky look and taste of this cake.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk if I don’t have any?

You can make a simple buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This helps create the tender crumb and slight tang that buttermilk provides in the cake.

Can I prepare the blackberry compote ahead of time?

Absolutely! The blackberry compote tastes even better after sitting overnight as the flavors meld. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container and spread it chilled on your cake for perfect texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have chocolate skulls for decoration?

No worries! You can swap them out for any spooky themed edible toppings like candy bats, Halloween sprinkles, or even black licorice twists. Fresh blackberries and dried rose petals alone create a beautiful, elegant look.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Ensuring you measure ingredients accurately, baking just until a toothpick comes out clean, and keeping the cake well wrapped or covered prevents drying. The buttermilk and coffee also help keep this cake moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Spooky Black Velvet Halloween Cake Recipe—a deliciously haunting dessert that blends rich chocolate, fresh berries, and elegant decorations into one unforgettable experience. This cake transforms any occasion into a celebration of flavor and style, and I can’t wait for you to try it yourself. Once you bake it, you’ll have a new favorite for Halloween and beyond that’s as scrumptious as it is stunning. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and prepare to impress everyone with this spectacular treat!