Emerald City Chocolate Cake

This decadent chocolate cake with emerald green buttercream is a showstopping dessert that captures the magical essence of Wicked. The rich, moist chocolate layers contrast beautifully with the vibrant green frosting, creating a wicked good flavor combination that's both enchanting and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 0.5 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for cake batter)
• 1 cup hot coffee
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 0.25 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
• green food coloring (gel preferred)
• black fondant or chocolate (optional, for decorations)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in hot coffee (batter will be thin). Divide batter between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 23-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.
6. For the frosting: Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with cream. Add vanilla and beat until smooth.
7. Add green food coloring a little at a time until you achieve a vibrant emerald green color.
8. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with frosting. Top with second layer and frost the top and sides of cake.
9. If desired, use black fondant or melted chocolate to create witch hat decorations or spell out 'Wicked' on top of the cake.

Notes