Name: Simple Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 and 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

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Chocolate cake is a beloved classic that brings comfort and joy to many. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, an afternoon tea with friends, or simply a sweet treat for yourself, a rich, moist chocolate cake is always a hit. This simple chocolate cake recipe is perfect for novice bakers and experienced chefs alike, boasting easy-to-follow instructions that yield delicious results. A slice of this cake is a heavenly experience, with its soft textures and decadent flavor, proving that sometimes, the simplest things can provide the most satisfaction.

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: 4 grams
Carbohydrates: 55 grams
Fat: 15 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 30 grams
Sodium: 220 mg

Why Make This Simple Chocolate Cake

This simple chocolate cake is not just easy to make; it’s incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed as is, or you can dress it up with frosting, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar. The rich chocolate flavor paired with a moist crumb makes it an ideal dessert for all occasions. It’s also a fantastic choice for beginner bakers looking to impress friends and family with minimal effort. Plus, this recipe uses common pantry ingredients, making it accessible for anyone craving a chocolatey treat.

How to Make Simple Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 and 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Combining the Ingredients

Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Blend everything together until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Incorporating Boiling Water

Carefully stir in the boiling water into the batter. Note that the batter will be thin, but this is what gives your cake its moist texture.

Step 5: Baking

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cooling

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Simple Chocolate Cake

This chocolate cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Slice it and serve on its own, or dress it up with your favorite chocolate frosting, whipped cream, or fresh berries. It’s also delightful with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

How to Store Simple Chocolate Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep it for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before freezing.

Expert Tips for Perfect Simple Chocolate Cake

Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Don’t skip the step of boiling the water; this activates the cocoa powder and keeps the cake moist.
Experiment with different frostings or toppings to find your favorite flavor combination!
Avoid overmixing the batter; mix just enough to combine the ingredients.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Ganache Cake: Top the cooled cake with a rich chocolate ganache for an elevated dessert.
Mint Chocolate Cake: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing twist.
Nutty Chocolate Cake: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra texture and flavor.
Coffee Chocolate Cake: Substitute some of the boiling water with brewed coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture may be denser.

What if I don’t have unsweetened cocoa powder?

You can substitute it with Dutch-processed cocoa powder, but keep an eye on the baking powder and baking soda amounts, as Dutch cocoa is less acidic.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to frost and serve.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter.

Conclusion

This simple chocolate cake recipe is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. Easy to make and sure to please, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual everyday desserts to special celebrations. With its rich flavor and moist texture, this cake is bound to become your go-to recipe. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a slice (or two) of deliciousness! Give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of homemade chocolate cake!