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Decadent black desserts are a trailblazer in the world of gourmet sweet treats and also offer more in terms of flavour and look. Classic options like black velvet cakes, black tahini fudge, and Brooklyn blackout cakes often take the help of food colouring which helps the desserts reach a particular colour. However, certain desserts like black sesame pudding and charcoal ice cream etc use ingredients that are naturally black.
The reason black desserts stand out easily is that most sweet treats, be it macarons, ice creams or even mithais, tend to be lighter in tone while most cakes are in pastels and use buttercream, vanilla cream, lemon curd etc. Black desserts however are made differently and need more attention to detail. Here are some cool black desserts you can consider for your next party
Activated Charcoal Ice Cream
Activated charcoal is already a popular option in the gourmet spectrum. Charcoal is renowned for its detoxifying properties and this jet-black frozen ice cream not only intrigues with its unconventional colour but also offers a rich, velvety texture. The activated charcoal, a tasteless and odourless substance, lends an intriguing visual element while allowing the other flavours to shine. Served in black cones or alongside contrasting toppings, this ice cream is a contemporary twist on a classic treat.
Black Sesame Pudding
Black sesame seeds, a staple in Asian cuisine can be used to make a silky and smooth pudding and boasts a deep ebony hue, captivating the senses with its nutty undertones. The unique flavour profile of black sesame seeds, combined with the luxurious texture of the pudding, offers a great sensory experience. Often adorned with sesame seed garnishes or drizzled with sesame oil, this dessert celebrates both flavour complexity and visual allure.
Chocolate Charcoal Cake
Combining the richness of chocolate with the striking appearance of activated charcoal, Chocolate Charcoal Cake is a decadent masterpiece that caters to the adventurous palate. The dark colour is achieved through the addition of activated charcoal to the chocolate batter, resulting in a dessert that is as visually appealing as it is indulgent. The cake's dark exterior often contrasts with a luscious, lighter frosting, creating a visually stunning slice that promises a symphony of chocolatey flavours.
Black Forest Gateau
The German creation that has stood the test of time has layers of moist chocolate sponge cake, dark cherries, and whipped cream come together to create a dessert that is as elegant as it is delicious. The deep crimson hue of the cherries against the dark chocolate backdrop makes each slice a work of art. Often adorned with chocolate shavings and more cherries, the Black Forest Gateau is a timeless masterpiece that continues to impress dessert lovers.
Liquorice Macarons
Elevating the delicate French macaron to new heights, Licorice Macarons infuse the sweet and aromatic flavour of liquorice into the traditional almond meringue cookies. The result is a visually striking treat with a subtle liquorice undertone. The glossy black shells, often sandwiching liquorice-flavoured ganache or cream, create a sensory experience and offer a sophisticated twist on a beloved classic, catering to those with a penchant for the unexpected.
Black Velvet Cupcakes
Inspired by the classic red velvet, Black Velvet Cupcakes put a dark spin on this beloved dessert. Activated charcoal or black cocoa powder transforms the traditional red velvet batter into a deep, ebony masterpiece. Topped with a contrasting cream cheese frosting or dark chocolate ganache, these cupcakes showcase the beauty of the dark side. The velvety texture, coupled with the visual allure, makes Black Velvet Cupcakes a must-try for those seeking a visually striking and indulgent treat.
Squid Ink Gelato
A unique savoury dessert, Squid Ink Gelato challenges preconceived notions of what dessert should be. This unconventional treat incorporates squid ink's briny and savoury flavours into a smooth gelato base. The result is a jet-black gelato with a rich, complex flavour profile that straddles the line between sweet and savoury. Often served in black cones or alongside sea-inspired toppings, Squid Ink Gelato is an avant-garde dessert that pushes the boundaries of culinary creativity.
