Black Magic Cake

When my mother passed away, a close family friend brought us two incredible cakes that immediately lifted our spirits during such a tough time. One was a Kentucky Apple Cake, which quickly won over the “big guys” in the family. The other was this Black Magic Cake, a decadent, moist, and dense chocolate masterpiece that became an instant favorite for my three sons and their friends.

This cake holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its rich flavor but because of the fond memories it evokes. My twin boys, in particular, love it so much that they requested it for their birthday—but with one important condition: each wanted their own cake! The most surprising thing about this recipe? It features coffee. But don’t let that scare you off; the coffee only enhances the chocolate flavor. My boys, who hate coffee, have no idea it’s even there. If they knew, they’d freak out, but they’ve never suspected a thing because all they taste is pure chocolate bliss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons why Black Magic Cake has become a go-to dessert for so many families:

Unparalleled Moistness: The combination of buttermilk, vegetable oil, and coffee results in an incredibly moist cake that stays fresh for days.

Rich Chocolate Flavor: Thanks to the cocoa powder and coffee, this cake has a deep, luxurious chocolate taste that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.

Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already.

Versatility: Whether baked as a sheet cake or layered into a showstopper, this recipe works beautifully for any occasion.

Crowd-Pleaser: This cake wins over adults and kids alike, making it a fantastic choice for parties, potlucks, or just because.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a rundown of the ingredients for both the cake and the frosting. Simple, yet transformative, these components come together to create a dessert like no other.

For the Cake:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups sugar

3/4 cup cocoa powder

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

1 cup strong black coffee, cooled

1 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 teaspoon real vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Frosting:

1/2 cup margarine, softened

2 ounces melted unsweetened chocolate, cooled

3 cups powdered sugar

3 tablespoons milk

2 teaspoons real vanilla extract

How to Make Black Magic Cake

Creating this cake is as enjoyable as eating it! Follow these steps for a foolproof dessert:

Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, cooled coffee, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat the batter at medium speed for two minutes. Don’t worry if the batter seems thin; this is what gives the cake its signature texture.

Bake: Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9×13 pan or two 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35-40 minutes (for a 9×13) or 30-35 minutes (for layers). The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. To make the frosting, combine softened margarine, melted chocolate, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Beat until smooth and creamy. Spread generously over the cooled cake.

Tips for Success

While this recipe is straightforward, a few tips can make it even better:

Use Fresh Coffee: Brew a strong cup of coffee for the best flavor. Instant coffee works in a pinch, but freshly brewed enhances the chocolate beautifully.

Cool the Coffee: Hot coffee can scramble the eggs or cause the batter to clump, so ensure it’s completely cooled before adding it.

Grease and Flour Your Pans: Properly preparing your pans prevents the cake from sticking and ensures clean, easy removal.

Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a dense cake.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and buttermilk come to room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.

How to Store

Black Magic Cake stores beautifully, making it ideal for prepping ahead:

Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to three days.

Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole cake (unfrosted) in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.

Conclusion

Black Magic Cake is more than just a chocolate cake; it’s a heartfelt tradition in my family and a recipe I’ll cherish forever. From its simple preparation to its unforgettable taste, this cake is the ultimate way to celebrate special moments or bring comfort to loved ones. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s earned its reputation as the best chocolate cake ever. So, preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and experience the magic for yourself!