Chocolate Cake
Chocolate cake is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Its rich, moist texture and deep chocolate flavor make it a favorite for birthday celebrations, family gatherings, or just an indulgent treat. If you’re craving a slice of something sweet, this chocolate cake recipe will not disappoint. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up a delightful cake that will impress everyone at the table!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 300mg
Why Make This Chocolate Cake
This is not just any chocolate cake; it’s an experience. The combination of all-purpose flour and unsweetened cocoa powder gives it a deep chocolate flavor, while the boiling water helps to create a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with frosting, each bite is a heavenly treat. Perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or just a regular Tuesday that needs a little sweetness!
How to Make Chocolate Cake
Baking a chocolate cake may seem daunting, but with this easy recipe, you’ll navigate through it with confidence. Gather your ingredients, and follow along step by step for a delightful baking experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well. Next, add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Cooking
Stir in the boiling water. Don’t be alarmed if the batter seems thin; this is normal and helps create that moist texture! Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Finishing
Once baked, cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Frost with your favorite chocolate frosting if desired, and get ready to enjoy a slice!
How to Serve Chocolate Cake
Serve chocolate cake on its own for a delightful afternoon treat or pair it with fresh berries and whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance. It’s also fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—a true match made in dessert heaven!
How to Store Chocolate Cake
To keep your chocolate cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For best results, you can freeze the un-frosted cake layers for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs and milk for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to ensure a tender cake.
- Use Quality Cocoa Powder: A good cocoa powder can significantly enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Cool Completely: Ensure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting your frosting.
- Save Leftovers: To maintain freshness, use plastic wrap or an airtight container for leftover slices.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Mint Cake: Add a few drops of mint extract to the batter for a refreshing twist.
- Nutty Chocolate Cake: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for additional texture.
- Coffee Chocolate Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the boiling water for a mocha flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil, canola oil, or even applesauce for a healthier option.
Can I make this chocolate cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum for structure.
How can I prevent my cake from sticking to the pans?
Greasing and flouring the pans is crucial. You can also use parchment paper to line the bottoms of the pans for added protection.
Can I bake this batter in a different pan size?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time. A larger pan will take less time, while a smaller one will require more—keep an eye on the cakes as they bake.
What type of frosting pairs best with this cake?
Chocolate buttercream frosting is a classic choice, but cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or ganache also complement the richness beautifully.
Conclusion
This homemade chocolate cake recipe offers a deliciously easy way to indulge in a classic dessert that fits any occasion. With its rich flavor and delightful texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try—it’s time to treat yourself to something sweet!
Print
Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and moist chocolate cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla; beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
- Stir in boiling water (the batter will be thin). Pour evenly into prepared pans.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost with your favorite chocolate frosting if desired and enjoy!
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for a better batter consistency. Don’t overmix to ensure a tender cake.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
