Chocolate Cake
A rich and moist chocolate cake recipe, perfect for any celebration or weekend treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and texture
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder Key for flavor
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda Leavening agent
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances sweetness
- 2 large eggs Binds ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk Contributes to texture
- ½ cup vegetable oil Ensures moisture
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Flavor enhancer
- 1 cup boiling water Helps bloom cocoa
For the Frosting
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder For frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar For sweetness
- ½ cup unsalted butter Softened for mixing
- ½ teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
- 3 tablespoons milk To achieve desired consistency
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Flavor enhancer for frosting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Dust the sides with flour or cocoa powder.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together thoroughly.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour in the boiling water and whisk quickly to combine into a silky batter.
Baking the Cakes
- Evenly pour the batter into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Frosting
- In a bowl, sift together the cocoa powder and powdered sugar. Add softened butter and mix on low until combined.
- Incorporate salt, vanilla extract, and milk, and mix until smooth and fluffy.
Assembling the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving platter and spread about a third of the frosting on top. Layer the second cake on top and spread the remaining frosting evenly.
- Slice and serve.
Notes
For extra flavor in frosting, consider coffee or almond extract variations. Keep cake layers completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.