Irresistible Easy Chocolate Cake Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in this delightful and easy-to-make chocolate cake that promises to satisfy your sweet cravings.
This easy chocolate cake recipe is perfect for any occasion. With its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
A Chocolate Lover's Dream
There's something undeniably special about chocolate cake that makes it a beloved dessert around the world. This easy chocolate cake recipe combines rich cocoa and a hint of orange zest, elevating the classic flavor profile to new heights. The addition of fresh orange zest not only enhances the cake's chocolatey goodness but also adds a delightful citrus aroma that will fill your kitchen as it bakes.
The moist and creamy texture of this cake is designed to melt in your mouth, making each bite an indulgent experience. Whether you're baking for a birthday, an anniversary, or just a weekend treat, this chocolate cake is sure to impress your family and friends. It's the kind of dessert that brings people together, sparking joy and creating sweet memories.
Simple Steps for Success
One of the best things about this chocolate cake recipe is its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create a show-stopping dessert. Prepping the cake batter only takes a few minutes, and the baking process gives you time to relax or prepare the frosting. By the time the cake is ready to frost, you’ll be filled with anticipation for the delicious treat ahead.
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making a cake from scratch; this recipe is forgiving and perfect for those who are still honing their baking skills. The boiling water incorporated into the batter ensures a moist cake, while the frosting is quick to whip up. Follow these easy steps, and you'll be rewarded with a decadent chocolate cake that tastes like it came from a professional bakery!
Perfect Pairings
This easy chocolate cake is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with various toppings. Consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination, or add fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can also enhance the cake, creating a visually stunning and delicious presentation.
For those looking to make the cake even more special, consider layering it with whipped cream and fruit or experimenting with different frostings, such as cream cheese or a rich ganache. No matter how you choose to serve it, this chocolate cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients
For the 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 Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lightly flouring them.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
Add Wet Ingredients
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.
Bake the Cake
Pour batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans.
Prepare the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with milk and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chocolate cake!
Baking Tips for the Best Results
To achieve the best results with this chocolate cake recipe, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking. It's also crucial to measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid using too much, which can lead to a dry cake.
Another tip is to invest in quality cocoa powder. The flavor of your chocolate cake heavily depends on it, so choose a brand that you love. Additionally, don't skip the boiling water step, as it helps to bloom the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor and ensuring a moist cake.
Storing Your Cake
If you happen to have leftovers (though we doubt it!), storing your chocolate cake properly is essential to maintain its freshness. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enjoy the delightful texture.
If you want to freeze the cake, slice it into individual portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the cake delicious for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or leave it out at room temperature for a few hours.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute.
→ How can I store leftover cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What's the best way to serve this cake?
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Irresistible Easy Chocolate Cake Recipe
Indulge in this delightful and easy-to-make chocolate cake that promises to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Created by: Phoebe Turner
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the 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 Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and lightly flouring them.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.
Pour batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans.
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with milk and vanilla. Beat until smooth.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g