A classic chocolate cake is always a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want something sweet to enjoy, this recipe will give you a moist, decadent chocolate cake with a rich flavor and perfect crumb. Here’s how to make it:
Classic Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water (or hot coffee for a deeper flavor)
For the chocolate frosting:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (add more if needed to achieve the right consistency)
Instructions:
For the cake:
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Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Add the wet ingredients:
- To the dry ingredients, add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and combined. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step.
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Add the boiling water (or coffee):
- Gradually pour in the boiling water (or coffee, if using). The batter will be thin, but that’s okay—it ensures a moist, tender cake.
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Bake the cakes:
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting:
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Make the frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
- Add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, one cup at a time, beating after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract, salt, and heavy cream. Beat on high speed for 3-5 minutes until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more cream to reach your desired consistency.
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Frost the cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cake and serve! For an extra touch, you can sprinkle chocolate shavings or cocoa powder on top, or even add some fresh berries or whipped cream for decoration.
This classic chocolate cake is rich, moist, and decadent, with a perfectly creamy chocolate frosting that makes every bite indulgent. It’s simple but packed with flavor—perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you’re craving chocolate!
Would you like to add anything to the cake, like a filling or extra decorations? Or are you sticking with the classic?