There’s nothing quite like a classic chocolate cake—rich, moist, and bursting with deep chocolate flavor. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a simple craving, this ultimate chocolate cake recipe will hit the spot. It’s easy to make, and the result is a decadent dessert that’s sure to please everyone. Here’s how to make this indulgent treat!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for a richer flavor)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee for a deeper flavor)
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup heavy cream (more if needed for consistency)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the boiling water (or hot coffee), mixing continuously. The batter will be thin, but this will help create a moist, tender cake.
- Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting:
- While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
- Sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder together to avoid lumps, then gradually add to the butter, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Add the vanilla extract, salt, and heavy cream. Beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable. Add more cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- Optionally, decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries for a beautiful finishing touch.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the cake! For best results, allow the cake to set for 15-20 minutes so the frosting firms up before cutting.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor: Use hot coffee instead of boiling water to intensify the chocolate taste.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Add-ins: Stir in chocolate chips, crushed Oreos, or chopped nuts into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Layered cake: You can bake this in 3 or 4 smaller pans for a multi-layered cake that’s even more impressive.
Why You’ll Love This Cake:
- Moist and Rich: The cake stays incredibly moist thanks to the oil and the addition of boiling water or coffee, giving it a soft and tender crumb.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a casual get-together, this cake is always a hit.
- Classic Chocolate Flavor: With the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, this is the chocolate cake everyone loves.
This ultimate chocolate cake is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy your sweet tooth every time. Its rich flavor, moist texture, and creamy frosting make it the perfect treat for any occasion!