Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cake Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Cream together unsalted butter and vegetable oil with granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Pour in milk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Blend until fully combined and smooth. Add the dry mixture gradually, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the cake batter into two bowls. Sift in black cocoa powder into one bowl and fold until fully incorporated.
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Spoon dollops of vanilla and chocolate batters alternately into the pans, creating a chessboard pattern. Use a knife to gently swirl the batters together.
- Bake in preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes.
- Run a butter knife around the edges to loosen the cake. Invert onto wire racks and let cool completely.
- Prepare the chocolate buttercream by beating together unsalted butter and cocoa powder until creamy. Gradually add confectioners' sugar and milk to achieve desired consistency.
- Once cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread buttercream on top, layer the second cake, and frost the top and sides. Use a spatula to create swirls as desired.
Nutrition
Notes
Ensure cakes are completely cool before frosting to maintain the buttercream's texture.
