Chocolate Cake

A classic treat, chocolate cake is the ideal combination of moist, delicate layers and rich, dark chocolate flavors. With so many versions ranging from rich fudge to sophisticated ganache, this popular dessert has captured the hearts and palates of people all over the world, becoming a favorite comfort meal and a mainstay at celebrations.

Tasting Notes

This chocolate cake boasts a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Its moist texture and intense chocolate flavor make it a crowd-pleaser for birthdays, celebrations, or just a delightful dessert after any meal.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 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 pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until well combined.
4. Stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the chocolate frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
8. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
9. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.
10. Decorate as desired and enjoy your homemade chocolate cake!

Pro Tips

• For an extra moist cake, add a cup of sour cream to the batter.
• Experiment with different types of cocoa powder for varying levels of richness in the chocolate frosting.

Variations

• Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for added texture.
• Try a flavored frosting, such as mint or raspberry, for a unique twist.

FAQs