Discover the ultimate Chocolate Cake recipe that delivers a rich, moist, and indulgent dessert every chocolate lover will adore. This classic chocolate cake is made from scratch using simple pantry ingredients like cocoa powder, butter, and sugar, resulting in a perfectly balanced sweet and fudgy cake with a tender crumb. Paired with a silky, decadent chocolate frosting, this cake is ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for something special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this easy-to-follow recipe provides detailed instructions for achieving the best homemade chocolate cake every time. Learn how to make this crowd-pleaser with step-by-step guidance, baking tips, and even variations to suit your taste, such as adding a layer of fresh berries, whipped cream, or espresso for an extra flavor boost. Perfect for dessert enthusiasts, party hosts, and anyone looking to indulge in a slice of pure chocolate bliss!
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- 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.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, beat the eggs. Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until fully combined.
- Add Boiling Water:
- Carefully pour in the boiling water and mix until the batter is smooth and thin.
- Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting:
- Make the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the cocoa powder and beat until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then beat until fully combined.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting over the top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate:
- Optionally, garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or berries for an extra touch.
Serve and Enjoy:
Cut into slices and enjoy this rich, moist, and decadent homemade chocolate cake! Perfect for any celebration or indulgent treat.
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