Black Cocoa Cake Basil Cherry

Name: Black Cocoa Cake Basil Cherry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup black cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped; 1 cup cherries, pitted and halved; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Black Cocoa Cake infused with fresh basil and cherry, perfect for any special occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T21:46:28.381Z

This Black Cocoa Cake is not just another dessert; it's an experience. The combination of dark cocoa with the fresh notes of basil and the sweetness of cherries creates a flavor profile that is both unique and delightful.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh basil and cherry
Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
A stunning centerpiece for any dessert table

      

A Unique Flavor Combination

This Black Cocoa Cake is not just another chocolate dessert; it’s a delightful blend of rich flavors that will surprise and enchant your taste buds. The deep, intense chocolate from the black cocoa powder pairs beautifully with the fresh fragrance of basil, creating a harmonious balance that elevates the cake beyond the ordinary. Each bite is a testament to the creativity that can emerge from unexpected ingredient pairings.

Adding cherries introduces a juicy sweetness that complements the chocolate and basil perfectly, making this cake ideal for any special occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply indulging in a weekend treat, this cake will surely impress your guests and create lasting memories.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The Black Cocoa Cake with Basil and Cherry is versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its stunning appearance makes it a showstopper on dessert tables, while the unique flavor profile makes it a memorable choice for family gatherings or festive celebrations. Imagine serving this cake at a summer wedding or a cozy holiday gathering; it’s bound to be the talk of the event.

Moreover, this cake is not only delicious but also visually striking. The deep, dark color of the cake contrasts beautifully with the vibrant cherries and the fresh green basil, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. It’s a dessert that brings joy and excitement to any meal.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure the best results with your Black Cocoa Cake, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small discrepancies can alter the texture and flavor of your cake. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for ingredients like flour and cocoa powder, which can be compacted in their containers.

Also, don't rush the mixing process. Creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy is crucial for achieving a moist and tender crumb. When folding in the basil and cherries, do so gently to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a denser cake. Patience and attention to detail will reward you with a deliciously decadent dessert.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start baking to ensure a smooth process.

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup black cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
1 cup cherries, pitted and halved

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your perfect Black Cocoa Cake.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together the flour, black cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.

Fold in Basil and Cherries

Gently fold in the chopped basil and cherry halves until evenly distributed.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, heavy cream, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides.

Enjoy your delicious Black Cocoa Cake with friends and family!

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Black Cocoa Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its flavors. The creaminess will balance the richness of the cake and the tartness of the cherries, creating a delightful contrast. For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkling of cocoa powder to elevate its presentation.

Pairing this cake with a light dessert wine or a refreshing herbal tea can also enhance the overall experience. The cake's flavors will shine through while the beverages provide a delightful backdrop, making it a perfect ending to a meal.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, although this may slightly affect the cake's texture. For optimal freshness, you can also freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving. This way, you'll be able to relish the rich flavors and moist texture just like when it was freshly baked.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, but it will alter the flavor and color of the cake slightly.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.