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Decadent, tender, and deeply chocolatey—this cake is the perfect dessert for celebrating any special moment. Featuring light, cocoa-packed layers paired with a smooth, rich chocolate frosting, it’s an eye-catching centerpiece that will delight every chocolate fan at the table.
Best Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
| Category | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cake | 2 cups all-purpose flour | Provides structure |
| 2 cups granulated sugar | Sweetens the batter | |
| ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder | Intense chocolate flavor | |
| 2 tsp baking powder | Helps the cake rise | |
| 1½ tsp baking soda | Extra lift | |
| 1 tsp salt | Enhances flavor | |
| 1 cup milk | Adds moisture | |
| ½ cup vegetable oil | Keeps the crumb soft | |
| 2 large eggs | Adds richness and binding | |
| 2 tsp vanilla extract | Aromatic depth | |
| 1 cup hot water | Brings out cocoa flavor | |
| Frosting | 1 cup unsalted butter, softened | Creamy foundation |
| 3½ cups powdered sugar | Sweetness | |
| ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder | Chocolate richness | |
| ½ cup milk | Smooth consistency | |
| 2 tsp vanilla extract | Flavor | |
| Pinch of salt | Balances sweetness |
Instructions
Making the Cake
Preheat the Oven
- Set oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until fully blended.
Bring the Batter Together
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture.
- Slowly pour in hot water, stirring until the batter is smooth and thin.
Bake
- Evenly divide batter between prepared pans.
- Bake for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool
- Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes.
- Turn out onto wire racks and cool completely.
Preparing the Frosting
Cream the Butter
- Beat softened butter in a large bowl until light and creamy.
Finish the Frosting
- Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla, and salt.
- Beat until fluffy and smooth.
Assemble the Cake
Layer and Frost
- Spread frosting over one cooled cake layer.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides.
Set the Cake
- Chill in the freezer for 30 minutes before slicing for clean cuts and best texture.
Moist, rich, and wonderfully indulgent, this chocolate cake is ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you want to serve an impressive homemade dessert.