Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and lightly dust it with flour, or line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Stir the dry ingredients together until they are well incorporated, ensuring there are no clumps of cocoa powder.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

1. Add the egg, buttermilk, warm water, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
2. Use a hand whisk or electric mixer on low speed to mix everything together until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Add Black Food Coloring (Optional)

1. If you’d like to achieve a deep, rich black color, add black food coloring slowly, a few drops at a time. Stir the batter after each addition and adjust the color until you reach your desired shade.
2. Note: Food coloring is optional but adds a striking visual effect to the cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the prepared cake batter into the greased 8-inch round cake pan.
2. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
3. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.