Brooklyn Blackout Cake: An Incredible 7-Layer Recipe

Brooklyn Blackout Cake is a dessert that takes chocolate decadence to a whole new level. This rich cake originated in Brooklyn, New York, and has become a beloved treat for chocolate lovers everywhere. With its dark, moist layers and velvety filling, it’s an indulgent dessert that anyone would be proud to serve at their table. Every bite reveals its rich history and culture, making it more than just a cake; it’s a slice of New York’s vibrant culinary landscape.

The uniqueness of Brooklyn Blackout Cake comes not just from its deep chocolate flavor but also from its luxurious texture. It is filled with a luscious chocolate pudding-like filling, layered between dark chocolate cake and generously frosted with chocolate buttercream. It’s a dessert that has reached iconic status, celebrated for its overwhelming chocolate richness that leaves you wanting just one more slice.

If you’re a chocolate aficionado, this cake will captivate your senses. You will discover its exceptional flavor profile and the beauty of making it at home. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, the Brooklyn Blackout Cake is sure to impress. Join me as we explore the delightful nuances that make this cake a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are numerous reasons to fall in love with Brooklyn Blackout Cake. Here are just a few:

1. Ultimate Chocolate Experience: Each layer offers an intense chocolate flavor that can satisfy even the most discerning chocolate enthusiast.
2. Rich History: Originating from a bakery in Brooklyn, this cake has a story that adds to its charm.
3. Show-Stopping Presentation: The glossy buttercream and dark layers make for a stunning visual impact.
4. Decadent Texture: The combination of moist cake and creamy filling creates a delightful mouthfeel.
5. Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays, this cake can elevate your dessert table.
6. Impressive Yet Achievable: Despite its sophisticated nature, the recipe is straightforward enough for bakers of all levels.

With these elements in mind, it’s easy to see why Brooklyn Blackout Cake is so beloved. The layers of flavor and texture create a truly memorable dessert experience.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating a Brooklyn Blackout Cake requires attention and care, but the end result is well worth the effort. Here’s the breakdown of the time needed:

• Preparation Time: Approximately 30–40 minutes
• Baking Time: Around 30–35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Assembly and Frosting Time: About 30 minutes

In total, expect this recipe to take about 2 to 2.5 hours, including cooling and assembly.

Ingredients

• For the Chocolate Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

• For the Chocolate Pastry Cream:
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 large egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 to 2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating the Brooklyn Blackout Cake will require careful following of these steps:

For the Chocolate Cake:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla.
4. Combine Mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and blend until smooth. Mix in the boiling water until well combined (the batter will be thin).
5. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter between the two prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Cool the Cakes: Remove from the oven and let cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

For the Chocolate Pastry Cream:

1. Heat Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, egg yolks, and cornstarch.
3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan.
4. Thicken the Cream: Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
5. Chill the Cream: Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until completely chilled.

For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:

1. Beat the Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Cocoa: Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating well until combined.
3. Mix in Vanilla: Add vanilla and beat until smooth, adding heavy cream as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.

Assembly:

1. Level the Cakes: Once cooled, level off the tops of the cakes if necessary.
2. Add Filling: Place one cake layer on a serving platter and spread a generous layer of pastry cream on top.
3. Layer Again: Place the second cake layer on top of the pastry cream.
4. Frost the Cake: Use chocolate buttercream to frost the top and sides of the cake.
5. Decorate: Optional—use chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or chopped nuts to garnish.

Each step leads you closer to achieving the incredible chocolate indulgence of the Brooklyn Blackout Cake.

How to Serve

When it’s time to serve your Brooklyn Blackout Cake, consider the following to enhance the experience:

1. Presentation: Place the cake on a decorative cake stand to showcase its layers.
2. Slice Size: Serve generous slices, as a rich cake like this invites second helpings.
3. Accompaniments: Pair slices with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness.
4. Beverage Pairing: Complement with a glass of milk, coffee, or dessert wine to elevate the indulgence.
5. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

By paying attention to these details, your Brooklyn Blackout Cake will be the highlight of any gathering. Enjoy this incredible dessert creation that not only satisfies sweetness cravings but also delights in its rich history!

Additional Tips

• Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality cocoa powder and unsweetened chocolate. The richer the ingredients, the more flavorful your cake will be.

• Cool Completely: Ensure your cake layers are completely cooled before stacking and frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and helps maintain the cake’s structure.

• Poke Holes Carefully: When adding the chocolate pastry cream, poke holes generously in the cake layers to allow the filling to seep through, making each bite extraordinary.

• Adjust Sweetness: You can modify the amount of sugar in the frosting to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet buttercream, reduce the powdered sugar.

• Decorate with Confidence: Get creative with your decorations! Use chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or even edible gold leaf for a touch of elegance.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to switch things up! Here are a few variations of the Brooklyn Blackout Cake to try:

1. Nut-Free Version: Omit any nut toppings or fillings for a nut-free dessert. If you crave crunchiness, consider adding crushed graham crackers instead.

1. Different Flavor Cake: Swap the chocolate cake with a vanilla or coffee-flavored cake mix. It offers a delightful twist while still being indulgent.

1. Healthier Alternative: For a lighter version, substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use unsweetened applesauce instead of some oil.

1. Layered Fruit: For a fruity touch, add layers of fresh raspberries or strawberries between the cake layers. This not only adds flavor but can also lighten the dessert.

1. Whipped Cream Topping: Top the cake with a generous dollop of whipped cream for an added texture contrast and a less intense chocolate experience.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep your Brooklyn Blackout Cake covered in the refrigerator. It will maintain its freshness for about 4 to 5 days.

• Freezing: For long-term storage, slice the cake into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

• Assemble before freezing: Consider freezing the individual cake layers before frosting if you plan to decorate later. This makes assembling easier once you’re ready to enjoy the cake.

Special Equipment

To prepare the Brooklyn Blackout Cake successfully, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Mixing Bowls: Use large bowls for mixing dry and wet ingredients separately.

• Electric Mixer: An electric mixer will make your buttercream smooth and fluffy, which is integral to the cake’s texture.

• Toothpicks or Cake Tester: To check if your cakes are done baking, a toothpick is essential.

• 9-inch Round Cake Pans: Standard pans will create the layers necessary for building the beautiful six-layer cake.

• Offset Spatula: This is useful for spreading frosting smoothly and evenly over the layers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake and frost the cake a day before serving. Let it sit in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.

Is this cake suitable for dietary restrictions?

Yes, with some modifications, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour, and you can also choose dairy-free substitutes for butter and milk.

Can I eliminate the pastry cream?

Certainly! If you prefer, you can skip the pastry cream and just layer the cake with more buttercream.

How should I slice the cake to serve?

For best presentation, use a sharp, warmed knife to cut through the cake. Clean the knife’s blade after each cut for clean slices.

Conclusion

The Brooklyn Blackout Cake stands as a tribute to chocolate lovers and an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Rich, moist, and layered with velvety chocolate goodness, it’s a dessert that perfectly embodies indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to impress. Dive into the delightful world of baking with this incredible recipe, and share the joy of Brooklyn Blackout Cake with friends and family!