Black Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

Frosting & Assembly

1. For the frosting, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth, fluffy, and free of lumps. This step is key to achieving a silky, stable buttercream.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, starting on low speed to avoid dusting the kitchen, then increasing to high once incorporated. Continue beating until light, creamy, and spreadable.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
4. Frost the cooled cake layers, spreading a generous amount between each layer and smoothing or swirling the exterior as desired. The cream cheese buttercream should glide easily over the cooled cakes.
5. Optionally, decorate with dark crumbs, black sprinkles, or a chocolate drip for added depth and contrast. Each element enhances the dramatic look of the black velvet finish.