Mini Brooklyn Blackout Cakes

If you’ve ever found yourself wandering the streets of Brooklyn, you may have stumbled upon the iconic Brooklyn Blackout Cake, a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Its rich layers of chocolate cake and velvety pudding have made it a classic. Today, we’re taking this beloved dessert and transforming it into bite-sized delights: Mini Brooklyn Blackout Cakes. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a sweet treat just for yourself, these mini cakes are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this decadent recipe that captures all the essence of the original while being perfectly portioned for sharing—or not!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Mini Brooklyn Blackout Cakes are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavor. The combination of moist chocolate cake with a luscious filling of chocolate pudding creates a balance that is simply irresistible. Plus, the mini size makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or indulging in a cozy night in, these cakes will always hit the spot. They’re easy to make, and the joy they bring is unmistakable. Once you make them, you’ll find yourself dreaming up reasons to whip up another batch!

Ingredient List

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup boiling water

Filling:

• Good old Chocolate Pudding
• Instant Chia Chocolate Pudding

Tools of the Trade

• Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Whisk: To get that batter smooth and lump-free.
• Muffin tin: The perfect vessel for your mini cakes.
• Piping bag: For filling the cakes with delicious pudding.
• Cooling rack: Essential for cooling your cakes evenly.

Method: Mini Brooklyn Blackout Cakes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners to ensure easy removal of your mini cakes.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the egg and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 5: Add Boiling Water

Carefully stir in the boiling water. This step is crucial as it helps to create a moist cake. The batter will be quite thin, but that’s exactly what we want.

Step 6: Pour into Muffin Tin

Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the mini cakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Fill with Pudding

Once the cakes are completely cool, use a piping bag to fill each cake with your choice of chocolate pudding. You can also slice the cakes in half and layer the pudding inside for a more indulgent experience.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Mini Brooklyn Blackout Cakes to your friends and family, reveling in the compliments that are sure to follow.

Variations by Season

• Spring: Add a hint of peppermint extract to the chocolate pudding for a refreshing twist.
• Summer: Top with fresh berries for a fruity contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Fall: Incorporate a touch of cinnamon into the cake batter for a warm flavor.
• Winter: Drizzle with warm chocolate ganache for an extra layer of decadence.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overmixing the batter can lead to tough cakes. Mix just until combined.
• Not letting the cakes cool completely before filling may result in melted pudding.
• Using cold ingredients can cause the batter to not rise properly. Ensure everything is at room temperature.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale for best results.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Mini Brooklyn Blackout Cakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, they can be frozen. Just make sure to wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What do I do if my cakes are too dry?

If your cakes turn out too dry, make sure not to overbake them next time. Keep an eye on the baking time and perform the toothpick test a few minutes before the suggested time.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. Just ensure the blend is suitable for baking.

Why did my cakes sink in the middle?

Cakes can sink if they are underbaked or if they were mixed too much. Ensure you follow the baking time and test for doneness properly.

How can I make these Mini Brooklyn Blackout Cakes more visually appealing?

Consider dusting the tops with powdered sugar, adding chocolate shavings, or drizzling with melted chocolate for a decorative touch.

Hungry for More?

If you’re craving more delightful recipes that bring joy and satisfaction, be sure to explore our collection of desserts that will have your taste buds dancing. From rich chocolate treats to light and fruity flavors, there’s something for everyone.

Indulging in Mini Brooklyn Blackout Cakes is a delightful experience that showcases the joy of baking and sharing. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, these mini cakes are sure to steal the show. With every bite, you’ll be reminded of the rich flavors and comforting nostalgia that this dessert brings. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create something truly delicious!