Here’s a classic recipe for a moist and rich Chocolate Cake that’s perfect for any celebration or just a sweet treat at home. This cake is sure to please chocolate lovers!
Classic Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 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
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk (or more as needed for consistency)
Instructions
1. 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.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth (the batter will be thin).
5. Bake:
- 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.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until well combined.
- Add the salt, vanilla extract, and milk, and beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
7. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
8. Decorate:
- If desired, decorate with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries.
9. Serve:
- Slice and enjoy your delicious chocolate cake!
Recipe Notes
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.
- Variations: For a richer flavor, consider adding espresso powder to the batter or using dark chocolate cocoa powder.
Enjoy your homemade chocolate cake!