Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the cauldron bubbles and the scent of chocolate fills the air, it’s time to bring some playful delight to your kitchen with a whimsical Black Cat Cake. This festive treat is not just charming but also wonderfully family-friendly, making it the perfect dessert for Halloween gatherings and cozy family nights. With its moist chocolate base and adorable fondant decorations, this cake invites kids to join in the fun of baking, allowing their creativity to shine. Not only is it a delightful centerpiece for your Halloween festivities, but it’s also a quick and easy recipe that brings joy to your taste buds and smiles all around. Are you ready to unleash your inner baker and create something mischievously cute? Let’s dive into how to whip up this enchanting Black Cat Cake! Why is this Black Cat Cake special? Easy to Make: The Black Cat Cake is designed with simplicity in mind, perfect for bakers of any skill level. Kid-Friendly Fun: Let the little ones help decorate with fondant and candies, creating cherished memories in the kitchen. Whimsical Presentation: Its playful design is an Instagram-ready showstopper that will dazzle your Halloween guests. Decadent Flavor: Moist chocolate cake meets rich frosting, making every bite a decadent delight. Versatile Decor: Switch up the fondant colors for different themes, or try it with vanilla frosting for a fun twist. Perfect for celebrating alongside treats like the Strawberry Icebox Cake or the Blueberry Cream Cake! Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for Halloween parties, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. Black Cat Cake Ingredients For the Cake Icing Sugar – For dusting and sweetening the frosting. Use powdered sugar as a substitute if needed. Butter (200g + 150g extra) – Provides moisture and richness. Substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version. Dark Chocolate (200g + 100g for frosting) – Main flavor component that adds richness. Use semi-sweet chocolate if necessary. Instant Coffee (1 tbsp) – Enhances the chocolate flavor. Omit if desired. Plain Flour (170g) – Provides structure. Consider gluten-free flour for gluten sensitivity. Bicarbonate of Soda (½ tsp) – Acts as a leavening agent. Baking powder can be used instead, in a 1:2 ratio. Golden Caster Sugar (400g) – Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb. Regular granulated sugar can substitute. Cocoa Powder (30g) – Enhances chocolate flavor. Carob powder can be an alternative for a different taste. Medium Eggs (3) – Binds the ingredients. Flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute. Milk (75ml) – Adds moisture. Use almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option. For the Decorations Black Fondant Icing (100g) – Used for cake decoration (ears). Can replace with marzipan if preferred. Yellow/Orange Fondant Icing (100g) – Used for cake decoration (eyes). Choose colored chocolate melts as an alternative. Heart-Shaped Jelly Sweet – Decorative element for the nose. Choose similar-shaped candy as an alternative. Pocky Sticks/Matchmakers/Liquorice – Used for whiskers. Omit or use alternative chocolate sticks if necessary. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Black Cat Cake Step 1: Prepare the Fondant Ears Start by rolling out the black fondant icing on a clean surface until it’s about 0.5 cm thick. Cut two triangle shapes for the cat ears and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Let them dry overnight to hold their shape, ensuring your Black Cat Cake has the perfect whimsical decoration when ready. Step 2: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 160°C (or 140°C for a fan oven) while you prepare the batter. Grease a 20cm round cake tin with butter and line the base with parchment paper. This ensures the cake easily releases once baked, providing that beautiful, moist texture characteristic of the Black Cat Cake. Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Mixture In a pan over low heat, combine 200g of dark chocolate, 200g of butter, 1 tablespoon of instant coffee, and 100ml of cold water. Stir gently and patiently until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, being careful not to boil it. Alternatively, you can use a microwave in short bursts, ensuring you don’t overheat. Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 170g of plain flour, ½ tsp of bicarbonate of soda, 400g of golden caster sugar, and 30g of cocoa powder. Sift these dry ingredients together to eliminate lumps and evenly distribute, creating the foundation for your Black Cat Cake’s rich flavor and delightful texture. Step 5: Combine the Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, beat together 3 medium eggs and 75ml of milk until well blended. Then, add your melted chocolate mixture to this bowl, stirring until smooth and cohesive. Gradually incorporate this into your dry ingredients, mixing gently until you achieve a smooth, luscious batter without overmixing. Step 6: Bake the Cake Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 25 to 1 hour and 35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to achieve that perfectly fluffy consistency for your Black Cat Cake. Step 7: Cool the Cake Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 30 minutes. After cooling, carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice the cake horizontally into three even layers to create a delightful multi-layered dessert. Step 8: Prepare the Frosting To make the frosting, beat 150g of soft butter in a bowl until fluffy. Gradually add 300g of icing sugar and 30g of cocoa powder, mixing well. Finally, add a splash of milk until the frosting is spreadable and smooth. Use a bit of this frosting to layer between the cake layers. Step 9: Frost the Cake Melt the remaining 100g of dark chocolate and mix it into the frosting, stirring until well combined. Spread this rich chocolate frosting evenly over the sides and top of the cooled Black Cat Cake, creating a smooth, decadent layer that complements its playful design. Step 10: Decorate the Cat Carefully attach the fondant ears to the top of the cake. Use yellow or orange fondant to create lively cat eyes, and place a heart-shaped jelly sweet for the nose. For whiskers, stick Pocky sticks or liquorice pieces into the sides, completing the charming Black Cat Cake ready for Halloween festivities! Black Cat Cake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this delightful Black Cat Cake with these fun swaps and twists! Frosting Flavor: Transform the chocolate frosting into a tangy vanilla or creamy cream cheese option for a deliciously different cake. Animal Theme: Change the fondant colors and shapes to create an adorable panda or playful dog cake, perfect for any occasion. Dairy-Free Delight: Swap butter for margarine and milk for almond or soy milk to easily make a dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy. Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of plain flour to cater to those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste. Sweetener Switch: For a healthier twist, you can replace golden caster sugar with coconut sugar or honey, giving your cake a subtle caramel flavor. Add a Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and delightful surprises in every slice. Chili Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a subtle kick that complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully. Fruit Filling: Layer the cake with fresh raspberries or a berry compote for a juicy burst of flavor in every bite, enhancing its sweetness and charm. Explore these variations to make your Black Cat Cake uniquely yours and more delightful than ever! And if you’re in the mood for more festive treats, don’t forget to check out the splendid Strawberry Icebox Cake and the indulgent Double Chocolate Cake. Happy baking! Expert Tips for Black Cat Cake Melt Chocolate Gently: Always melt chocolate over low heat or in short microwave bursts to prevent it from seizing. This ensures your black cat cake remains rich and luscious. Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the desired light texture. Cool Completely: Make sure to let your cake cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and maintains the whimsical decor used for your black cat cake. Use Quality Fondant: Opt for high-quality black fondant to achieve a vibrant color with great taste. It makes your cake visually stunning and delightful to eat. Prep Ahead: Freeze the uniced cake layers for up to two months. This allows for stress-free preparation, making your Halloween celebration more enjoyable! What to Serve with Black Cat Cake As you celebrate Halloween with the delightful Black Cat Cake, let’s explore enchanting accompaniments that will make your festivities even more delightful. Spooky Fruit Skewers: Fill skewers with strawberries, grapes, and melon balls for a vibrant, healthy snack that kids will adore. Witch’s Brew Punch: A fizzy blend of lemonade and lime soda, served with floating gummy worms, adds a refreshing, whimsical touch to your gathering. Dark Chocolate Dipped Apples: Crisp apple slices coated in rich dark chocolate create a delightful contrast to the cake’s sweetness, satisfying every palate. Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Soft, spiced cookies complement the rich chocolate flavors of the cake while embracing the warm autumn scent of the season. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the cake’s sweetness, creating a comforting and classic pairing. Candy Corn Trail Mix: A playful mix of nuts, pretzels, and candy corn brings a crunchy, sweet element that enhances the festive atmosphere. Charming Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over individual slices for an indulgent topping that elevates the Black Cat Cake into a truly decadent dessert. Ghostly Marshmallow Pops: These cute treats, coated in white chocolate and adorned with chocolate eyes, make for a playful and delicious addition to the dessert table. Hot Chocolate Bar: Offer a cozy hot chocolate station with whipped cream and festive toppings, enhancing the joyful spirit of the occasion. Spiced Cider: Warm spiced apple cider fills your home with delightful aromas and pairs beautifully with the festive ambiance of Halloween celebrations. Make Ahead Options These Black Cat Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during festive preparations! You can bake the cake itself up to 3 days in advance; once it’s completely cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moist texture. Additionally, prepare and shape the fondant decorations (ears, eyes) up to 24 hours ahead; just keep them covered to prevent drying out. On the day of serving, simply frost the cake with your prepared chocolate frosting and add the fondant pieces for that whimsical touch. This way, you’ll enjoy effortless assembly and a delightful treat that’s just as delicious, while having more time to celebrate! Storage Tips for Black Cat Cake Uniced Cake: Store the uniced Black Cat Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to settle beautifully. Iced Cake: Once frosted, consume your delightful cake within 3-5 days to ensure it remains fresh and tasty. Keep it covered at room temperature or in the fridge. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the uniced cake for up to two months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, bringing back its cozy chocolate goodness! Black Cat Cake Recipe FAQs What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for this cake? Absolutely! When selecting ingredients like butter and eggs, choose fresh ones that are not past their expiration dates. For butter, it should be creamy and have very little discoloration. If you’re using milk, opt for fresh ones without any off-smells or curdles. Fresh eggs should feel heavy for their size, and when cracked open, the yolks should be plump and firm. How should I store the Black Cat Cake, and for how long? Once you’ve baked your Black Cat Cake, let it cool completely. Store the uniced cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, wrap it in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to 2 months. Once iced, consume your cake within 3-5 days for optimum freshness. Keep it covered at room temperature or in the fridge. Can I freeze the Black Cat Cake after making it? Yes, you can freeze the uniced Black Cat Cake for up to 2 months! Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight. You can ice it after it has completely thawed, which allows the frosting to set perfectly! What should I do if the cake turns out too dense? Very! If your Black Cat Cake is dense, it’s often due to overmixing the batter. To prevent this, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined—it’s okay if there are a few small lumps. Additionally, ensure your baking soda is fresh and actively leavening; expired ingredients can affect your cake’s rise and texture. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Absolutely! The Black Cat Cake is vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re catering to specific dietary needs, substitutions are possible. For a dairy-free version, swap butter for margarine and use almond or soy milk instead. You can also replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) for a vegan alternative. Just be aware of any candy decorations which may contain allergens. Whimsical Black Cat Cake: A Fun Halloween Delight This whimsical Black Cat Cake is a delightful dessert perfect for Halloween, combining rich chocolate flavors with playful decorations. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 25 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake200 g Butter Provides moisture and richness. Substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.200 g Dark Chocolate Main flavor component. Use semi-sweet chocolate if necessary.1 tbsp Instant Coffee Enhances the chocolate flavor. Omit if desired.170 g Plain Flour Provides structure. Consider gluten-free flour for gluten sensitivity.½ tsp Bicarbonate of Soda Acts as a leavening agent. Baking powder can be used instead, in a 1:2 ratio.400 g Golden Caster Sugar Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb. Regular granulated sugar can substitute.30 g Cocoa Powder Enhances chocolate flavor. Carob powder can be an alternative for a different taste.3 medium Eggs Binds the ingredients. Flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute.75 ml Milk Adds moisture. Use almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.For the Decorations100 g Black Fondant Icing Used for cake decoration (ears). Can replace with marzipan if preferred.100 g Yellow/Orange Fondant Icing Used for cake decoration (eyes). Choose colored chocolate melts as an alternative.Heart-Shaped Jelly Sweet Decorative element for the nose. Choose similar-shaped candy as an alternative.Pocky Sticks/Matchmakers/Liquorice Used for whiskers. Omit or use alternative chocolate sticks if necessary. Equipment 20cm round cake tinlarge mixing bowlSpatulaParchment PaperPanwire rack Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Black Cat CakePrepare the Fondant Ears: Roll out the black fondant icing on a clean surface until it’s about 0.5 cm thick. Cut two triangle shapes for the cat ears and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Let them dry overnight to hold their shape. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 160°C (or 140°C for a fan oven) while preparing the batter. Grease a 20cm round cake tin with butter and line the base with parchment paper. Melt the Chocolate Mixture: In a pan over low heat, combine 200g of dark chocolate, 200g of butter, 1 tablespoon of instant coffee, and 100ml of cold water. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and melted. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 170g of plain flour, ½ tsp of bicarbonate of soda, 400g of golden caster sugar, and 30g of cocoa powder. Sift these dry ingredients together. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together 3 medium eggs and 75ml of milk. Add your melted chocolate mixture to this bowl, stirring until smooth. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 25 to 1 hour and 35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 30 minutes. Turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Prepare the Frosting: Beat 150g of soft butter until fluffy. Gradually add 300g of icing sugar and 30g of cocoa powder. Add a splash of milk until spreadable and smooth. Frost the Cake: Melt the remaining 100g of dark chocolate and mix it into the frosting. Spread this rich chocolate frosting evenly over the cake. Decorate the Cat: Attach the fondant ears, create cat eyes, and place a heart-shaped jelly sweet for the nose. Stick Pocky or liquorice for whiskers. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 15mgIron: 2mg NotesExpert tips include melting chocolate gently, not overmixing, cooling completely before frosting, using quality fondant, and prepping ahead. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
