Midnight Velvet Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup black cocoa powder
• 1 cup hot water
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup brewed black coffee
• 1/4 cup black rum
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
2. In a small bowl, combine the black cocoa powder and hot water to make a paste. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix well.
5. Slowly pour in the buttermilk, brewed coffee, and black rum while mixing the batter.
6. Stir in the cooled cocoa paste until well combined, then fold in the dark chocolate chips.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Slice and serve the Midnight Velvet Cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.