Black Cocoa Cake Basil Cherry

Name: Black Cocoa Cake Basil Cherry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup black cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 cup cherries, pitted and halved; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ⅓ cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2-3 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Fusion Style Recipes

A rich and decadent cake that combines the intense flavor of black cocoa with the freshness of basil and the sweetness of cherries.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T23:54:27.519Z

This Black Cocoa Cake combines unique flavors that will surprise your taste buds. The deep, rich cocoa is perfectly complemented by the aromatic basil and the juicy cherries, making it a delightful dessert for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh basil and cherries
Unique combination that excites the palate
Perfect for special gatherings or a cozy night in

      

The Unique Flavor Profile

This Black Cocoa Cake with Basil and Cherry is a culinary masterpiece that dares to break the mold of traditional desserts. The rich, dark notes of black cocoa powder create an intense chocolate experience that is deep and satisfying. In contrast, the fresh basil adds a surprising twist; its herbaceous undertones elevate the cake, making it more than just a sweet treat. The sweet, tart cherries not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful pop of color, making this cake visually stunning.

The interplay between the chocolate, basil, and cherry flavors is what makes this cake truly unique. Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness and earthiness, leaving you craving more. This cake is an excellent choice for adventurous bakers looking to impress their guests with an unexpected yet harmonious blend of ingredients.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a birthday party, celebrating an anniversary, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this cake is the perfect centerpiece. Its rich flavor and elegant appearance make it suitable for both formal gatherings and casual get-togethers. Your guests will be intrigued by the combination of flavors and will undoubtedly rave about this novel dessert.

Moreover, this cake can be easily customized to fit various occasions. Consider adding seasonal fruits or adjusting the frosting flavors to match the theme of your event. With its versatile nature, this Black Cocoa Cake can become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Storage and Serving Tips

To ensure the best flavor and texture, store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, consider refrigerating it. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavors fully.

When it comes to serving, this cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess balances the rich chocolate and basil flavors, creating a delightful dessert experience. Garnish with additional cherries or a sprinkle of fresh basil for an elegant touch that will wow your guests.

Ingredients

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

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup black cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup fresh basil, chopped
1 cup cherries, pitted and halved

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
⅓ cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk

Make sure to measure ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a perfectly baked 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, whisk 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

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix until just combined.

Fold in Basil and Cherries

Gently fold in the chopped basil and halved cherries into the batter.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center 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 mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until smooth. Add vanilla and milk to reach desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter, spread a layer of frosting, then top with the second layer and frost the top and sides.

Let the cake sit for a bit before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Baking Tips for Success

Baking a cake can sometimes feel daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you can ensure your Black Cocoa Cake turns out perfectly every time. One essential tip is to measure your ingredients accurately; using a kitchen scale can help achieve precision. Additionally, allowing your butter to soften at room temperature will make it easier to cream with the sugar, leading to a lighter cake.

Another key point is to avoid overmixing your batter once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined will result in a tender cake. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Why Black Cocoa?

Black cocoa powder is a special ingredient that brings a distinct flavor and color to your cake. It's more intense and less sweet than regular cocoa powder, which allows for a rich chocolate flavor that stands out. The dark hue of black cocoa can also give your cake a dramatic appearance, making it a visually appealing dessert for any occasion.

Additionally, black cocoa is often used in recipes for its ability to enhance the overall chocolate taste without being overly sweet. This makes it a fantastic choice for balancing the sweetness of the cherries and the herbal notes of the basil in this cake.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, but the flavor and color will differ.

→ How can I store the cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice added.