Ingredients
- ½ cup of plain hot coffee or boiling water
- ¼ cup (21 grams) unsweetened natural cocoa powder
- 2 ¼ cups (279 grams) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (109 grams) fresh vegetable oil
- 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (at room temperature)
- 1 cup buttermilk (at room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 teaspoons red gel food coloring (plus more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
- 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 2 sticks (227 grams) unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups (500 grams) powdered sugar (sifted)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, vegetable oil, and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by buttermilk, vanilla extract, vinegar, hot coffee or water, and red gel food coloring.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually combine with the wet mixture until just mixed.
- Divide the batter into prepared pans and bake for 30–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes before frosting with cream cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider substituting beet juice for natural coloring or adding spices like nutmeg for warmth. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
