The Brooklyn Blackout Cake is a true chocolate lover’s dream, filled with rich layers of moist cake and smooth chocolate pudding. Each slice is a decadent treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
This cake is perfect for any celebration, from birthdays to holiday gatherings. With its luscious texture and layered flavors, the Brooklyn Blackout Cake is a showstopper that will impress your guests and leave them coming back for more.
FULL RECIPE:
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
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1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 large eggs
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1 cup buttermilk
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1/2 cup vegetable oil
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 cup boiling water
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1 cup dark chocolate chips
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2 tablespoons butter, softened
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3/4 cup heavy cream
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2 tablespoons powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
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Gradually add the boiling water to the batter, mixing until combined. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay.
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Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
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Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth.
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Add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture. Whisk until fully combined and smooth.
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Once the cakes have cooled, place one cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
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Place the second cake on top, then spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
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Let the frosting set for about 30 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 435 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
The History and Origins of Brooklyn Blackout Cake
The origin of the Brooklyn Blackout Cake dates back to World War II. In 1941, a bakery in Brooklyn, Ebinger’s Bakery, created the cake to celebrate the city’s resilience during the difficult war years. The cake was named “blackout” to commemorate the air raids and blackouts in the city, symbolizing a time of uncertainty and fear. Despite these dark times, the Brooklyn Blackout Cake became a symbol of comfort, providing a sense of sweetness and relief amidst the challenges.
Ebinger’s Bakery quickly became known for their version of this cake, and it wasn’t long before Brooklyn Blackout Cake became a staple dessert in the area, known for its distinct layers of moist chocolate cake, rich chocolate pudding filling, and velvety whipped cream frosting. The cake became an iconic dessert, beloved by generations of New Yorkers and beyond.
Sadly, Ebinger’s Bakery closed in the 1970s, but the legacy of the Brooklyn Blackout Cake lives on. Today, many bakeries and home bakers continue to make their own versions of this iconic dessert, keeping the spirit of the original alive.
Why Is Brooklyn Blackout Cake So Popular?
The popularity of Brooklyn Blackout Cake lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. It is a dessert that appeals to all types of chocolate lovers, from those who enjoy the deep richness of dark chocolate to those who crave a comforting, indulgent dessert. Each layer of this cake adds something special to the experience, whether it’s the moist and fluffy cake layers, the silky-smooth chocolate pudding filling, or the luxurious whipped cream topping.
The cake’s layered composition is key to its appeal. The dense, moist chocolate cake forms the foundation, providing a rich backdrop for the smooth and creamy pudding that sits between the layers. The pudding is made from scratch, often with dark chocolate, giving it a deep and intense flavor. Finally, the whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the richness of the pudding and cake, making every bite a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Beyond the taste, Brooklyn Blackout Cake also has a visual appeal. The cake’s dark, almost black color makes it stand out on any dessert table, with its rich layers peeking through the whipped cream frosting. This striking appearance makes it perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or simply as a decadent treat to enjoy at home.
Variations of Brooklyn Blackout Cake
While the traditional Brooklyn Blackout Cake recipe remains popular, there are plenty of variations to explore, allowing bakers to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Some modern twists on the classic include:
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Flavored Puddings: While the original recipe uses a simple chocolate pudding, many bakers now experiment with different pudding flavors. Some use white chocolate or even coffee-flavored puddings to add an unexpected element to the cake.
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Buttercream Frosting: Instead of the traditional whipped cream, some bakers opt for buttercream frosting, which adds a richer, creamier layer to the cake. The addition of flavored buttercream, such as espresso or caramel, is also becoming popular.
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Cake Flour for a Lighter Texture: While traditional Brooklyn Blackout Cake calls for all-purpose flour, some bakers prefer to use cake flour for a lighter, more delicate crumb. This version tends to be a bit more airy while still retaining the moistness that makes the cake so satisfying.
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Garnishes and Toppings: Bakers often enjoy decorating Brooklyn Blackout Cake with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or even chocolate chips. Some people also drizzle a rich chocolate sauce over the top to add extra decadence.
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Vegan or Gluten-Free Variants: For those with dietary restrictions, there are now gluten-free and vegan versions of the Brooklyn Blackout Cake. Vegan substitutes like non-dairy milk, eggs, and plant-based whipped cream allow those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the cake as well. Gluten-free flours, such as almond or rice flour, can be used to recreate the cake’s rich texture without the gluten.
Why You Should Try Brooklyn Blackout Cake
There are many reasons why Brooklyn Blackout Cake should be on your list of desserts to try. First and foremost, it’s a chocolate lover’s dream. The combination of rich chocolate cake, creamy pudding, and whipped cream creates a flavor profile that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake never fails to impress.
The cake is also a versatile dessert. It can be served as a showstopper at birthday parties, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings, or simply enjoyed as an indulgent treat at the end of a week. The dark, decadent layers make it feel like a luxurious dessert, while the pudding and whipped cream add a comforting and familiar feel.
Additionally, the cake is a fun project for any baker. While the process may seem intimidating at first, it’s well worth the effort. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel after making your own Brooklyn Blackout Cake from scratch is unmatched, and the end result will undoubtedly be something to share with family and friends.
Conclusion:
Brooklyn Blackout Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of resilience, comfort, and indulgence. Originating during World War II, this cake has become an iconic treat, loved for its deep chocolate flavor, moist texture, and its ability to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Its rich history, paired with its undeniable appeal, makes it a dessert that will always have a special place in the hearts of those who love chocolate and want to indulge in something truly special.
Whether you are making it for a celebration or as a weekend treat, Brooklyn Blackout Cake is a dessert worth savoring. Its layers of chocolate cake, rich pudding, and fluffy whipped cream create a dessert that’s both decadent and comforting, reminding us of the joy that a good slice of cake can bring.