Introduction
Chocolate cake is one of the most loved desserts in the world. Rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey, it is the ultimate comfort cake for birthdays, celebrations, or simply when you want something sweet and satisfying. This big recipe gives you a soft crumb, intense chocolate flavor, and a cake that stays moist for days. It can be enjoyed plain, dusted with cocoa, or dressed up with frosting and fillings.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup hot water or hot coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)
For the Chocolate Frosting (optional but recommended)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
⅓ cup milk (more if needed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour two round cake pans or one large rectangular pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Slowly pour in the hot water or hot coffee, mixing gently. The batter will be thin; this is normal.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting Preparation
- Beat butter until creamy.
- Add cocoa powder and mix well.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, beating until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.
- Frost the cooled cake and decorate as desired.
Methods and Tips
– Use hot coffee instead of water for deeper chocolate flavor.
– Do not overmix the batter; mix just until combined.
– For extra moisture, brush the cake layers lightly with milk or chocolate syrup before frosting.
History
Chocolate cake became popular in the late 19th century when cocoa powder became widely available. Before that, chocolate was mostly used as a drink. As baking techniques improved, chocolate found its way into cakes, becoming a symbol of indulgence and celebration across many cultures.
Benefits
– Cocoa contains antioxidants that support heart health.
– Chocolate cake provides quick energy and comfort.
– Homemade cake allows control over ingredients and sweetness.
Variations
– Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness.
– Fill layers with chocolate ganache or whipped cream.
– Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and oil.
Nutrition (Approximate per slice)
Calories: 350–400
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 18 g
Conclusion
This classic chocolate cake recipe is rich, moist, and perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a timeless dessert that never fails to impress chocolate lovers of all ages.