Blackout Cake is a decadent, indulgent dessert that is perfect for chocolate lovers. This cake is a rich, moist chocolate cake layered with a velvety smooth chocolate frosting, offering a deep, intense chocolate flavor with every bite. The name “Blackout” comes from the dark, luxurious appearance of the cake, which is almost completely coated in chocolate. It’s a perfect dessert for special occasions, birthdays, or any celebration where you want to impress with a show-stopping, chocolate-filled treat.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra smoothness)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture on medium speed until smooth.
4. Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, mixing until fully combined. The batter will be thin.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating the butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth and creamy.
8. Once the cakes have cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
9. Optionally, you can drizzle with heavy cream for extra smoothness and richness.
10. Slice and serve the rich, indulgent Blackout Cake. Enjoy!

Nutrients

Estimated Nutritional Facts per Serving (based on 12 servings):
• Calories: 450–500 kcal
• Total Fat: 25–30 g
– Saturated Fat: 12–14 g
• Cholesterol: 55–65 mg
• Sodium: 200–250 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 55–60 g
– Dietary Fiber: 3–4 g
– Sugars: 40–45 g
• Protein: 4–5 g

History and Origins of Blackout Cake

Blackout Cake is a decadent dessert that has become a beloved treat in many households, especially among chocolate enthusiasts. The origins of this cake can be traced back to the early 20th century, with some believing it was first created in Brooklyn, New York. The story goes that during World War II, a chocolate cake was made to symbolize the blackout drills that were conducted to protect cities from air raids. This cake became so popular that it was dubbed “Blackout Cake” due to its dark and rich appearance. It is said that the cake’s deep chocolate color, combined with the intense flavor, reminded people of the literal blackout that was meant to keep the city safe during wartime.

The Allure of Blackout Cake

What makes Blackout Cake so irresistible is its richness. The dense, moist chocolate cake pairs perfectly with the thick, smooth frosting, creating a dessert that is incredibly indulgent yet balanced. The cake itself is often described as having a deep chocolate flavor that is both intense and satisfying, while the frosting adds a velvety sweetness that complements the bitterness of the chocolate. Every bite of Blackout Cake offers a complex layer of flavors that range from bittersweet to creamy, making it a cake that appeals to both chocolate connoisseurs and casual dessert lovers alike.

Flavor Profile and Texture

Blackout Cake stands out primarily due to its intense chocolate flavor. Unlike lighter cakes that might be overly sweet, Blackout Cake balances its chocolate notes with a slight bitterness, allowing the depth of the cocoa to shine. The cake itself is rich and moist, often described as being almost like a pudding in texture. The batter typically contains ingredients such as cocoa powder, sugar, and sometimes even coffee, which enhance the flavor of the chocolate and create a dense, flavorful cake that melts in your mouth. The use of boiling water in the batter also helps to keep the cake light and moist despite its rich nature.

Variations of Blackout Cake

While the classic version of Blackout Cake is made with a rich chocolate cake and a creamy chocolate frosting, there are many ways to customize this dessert to suit different tastes. Some variations incorporate other ingredients, such as nuts or fruits, to add additional texture and flavor. For example, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the frosting or cake to introduce a crunchy element that contrasts with the smoothness of the cake and frosting.

Another variation includes the use of different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate, semisweet chocolate, or even milk chocolate can be used to make the frosting or cake, depending on your preference for sweetness or bitterness. For those who prefer a sweeter cake, using milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate can create a more indulgent flavor, while those who enjoy a more intense chocolate flavor may opt for a higher percentage dark chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

Blackout Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping centerpiece at a dinner party. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages, including a glass of red wine, such as a full-bodied Merlot, or a dark stout beer, both of which complement the cake’s rich chocolate flavor. For a more traditional pairing, a cup of hot coffee or espresso is an excellent match, as the bitterness of the coffee enhances the chocolatey goodness of the cake.

Nutritional Aspects of Blackout Cake

While Blackout Cake is undeniably delicious, it is important to consider its nutritional content. The rich chocolate cake, paired with a creamy, sugar-laden frosting, means that this dessert is high in calories, fat, and sugar. A slice of Blackout Cake can easily exceed 400–500 calories, depending on the size of the slice. The fat content is also relatively high due to the use of butter in both the cake and frosting, and the sugar content can be quite significant, especially if the frosting is made with powdered sugar.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Blackout Cake is an indulgent, chocolate-lovers’ dream dessert that combines rich, moist chocolate cake with a smooth and velvety frosting. Its deep chocolate flavor, coupled with its dramatic appearance, makes it a show-stopping dessert perfect for any celebration or special occasion. While it is a rich treat, Blackout Cake can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs, from variations in chocolate to gluten-free or vegan options. The versatility of this dessert ensures that it can be enjoyed by everyone, no matter their dietary preferences.