Classic Chocolate Cake Recipe

why make this recipe

A Classic Chocolate Cake is a timeless dessert that appeals to everyone, from kids to adults. It’s rich, moist, and filled with deep chocolate flavor, making it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a cake that will impress your family and friends. Plus, the homemade frosting takes it to another level!

how to make Classic Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• 1½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water or hot coffee
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 3½ cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
• ½ tsp salt (for frosting)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
• ¼ cup heavy cream (or milk for frosting)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
4. Slowly stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, and that’s okay!
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy.
9. Gradually sift in the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, mixing well.
10. Add the vanilla, salt, and heavy cream, then beat until smooth and fluffy.
11. Frost the cooled cakes and stack them.

how to serve Classic Chocolate Cake

Serve this delicious cake as a dessert after a meal or as a treat for special occasions. You can enjoy it plain or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence.

how to store Classic Chocolate Cake

To store your Classic Chocolate Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap.

tips to make Classic Chocolate Cake

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start.
• Don’t skip the step of sifting the dry ingredients; it helps the cake to be light and fluffy.
• If you want extra chocolate flavor, you can add chocolate chips to the batter.
• Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.

variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding espresso powder to the batter or using different flavors for the frosting, like peppermint or orange zest.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance. Just wrap them in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Frost on the day you plan to serve.

Q2: Can I use gluten-free flour?
A2: Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour. Make sure it contains a binding agent, like xanthan gum.

Q3: How can I make the cake moist?
A3: Be careful not to overbake the cake. Using boiling water in the batter also helps keep it moist. Additionally, store the cake properly to retain moisture.