Chocolate cake—arguably one of the most irresistible desserts ever created.
Whether it's for a birthday, a special celebration, or simply a treat to enjoy after a long day, this rich, moist, and decadent cake always hits the spot.
Today, we will take closer into the ultimate chocolate cake recipe that will leave everyone craving more! Not only will this guide take you through each step, but it’ll also ensure you get the best, most indulgent cake every time!
Chocolate Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Ingredients for Cake:
1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs (at room temperature)
1 cup (240ml) whole milk
½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) boiling water
For the Frosting:
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups (450g) powdered sugar
¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup (60ml) whole milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes come out smoothly after baking. Lining the bottom with parchment paper can make the removal process even easier!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk everything together until evenly mixed. The cocoa powder might tend to clump, so be sure to break any lumps to ensure a smooth batter.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract together. This will create a smooth, homogenous liquid mixture that combines perfectly with the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or electric mixer until smooth. Be careful not to over-mix—it should be just combined for a light and airy texture.
Step 5: Add Boiling Water
Once the batter is well mixed, pour in the boiling water. This will thin the batter out significantly, but don’t worry, it’s supposed to be runny. This step helps create that super moist cake texture. Mix until the water is fully incorporated.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end to avoid overbaking—this is key for maintaining the cake’s moistness.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. Allowing the cakes to cool ensures that the frosting doesn't melt when applied.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
For the frosting, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until combined. Add the vanilla extract and salt, then pour in the milk a little at a time until you achieve the desired consistency. The frosting should be thick but spreadable.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, smoothing it out evenly. Place the second cake layer on top, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. For a professional finish, use a spatula to create smooth sides or add decorative swirls on top.
Additional Tips for a Perfect Chocolate Cake
Quality Cocoa Powder: The cocoa powder is the star of the show, so choose high-quality unsweetened cocoa for the deepest, richest flavor.
Moisture: If you're looking for an extra-moist cake, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream or buttermilk to the batter. These ingredients help create a softer crumb.
Frosting Variations: For a twist on the classic chocolate frosting, try adding a tablespoon of coffee or espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor. You can also experiment with a chocolate ganache for an even more indulgent finish.
Layering: You can double the recipe to make a 4-layer cake for even more indulgence, especially if you're preparing this for a special occasion.
Now, Lykkers, you have everything you need to create the perfect chocolate cake at home. Whether it's a simple weekend treat or a dessert to impress at your next celebration, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every moist, chocolatey bite, and remember that baking is as much about creativity as it is about flavor. So, don’t be afraid to make this cake your own by adding a few personalized touches! Happy baking!
