This Chocolate Vanilla Cake is the ultimate combination of rich cocoa flavor and smooth, creamy vanilla buttercream. Moist, tender, and beautifully balanced, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, holidays, or even as a simple everyday dessert when you’re craving something special.

With soft chocolate layers and a light vanilla frosting, this cake delivers a timeless flavor pairing that never goes out of style.

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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Vanilla Cake

• Classic chocolate and vanilla flavor combination
• Moist, soft cake layers
• Smooth and creamy vanilla buttercream
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for celebrations or casual desserts

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Recipe Overview

• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American
• Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly
• Pan Size: Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Servings: 12 slices

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Ingredients

Chocolate Cake

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Vanilla Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and set aside.

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2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

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3️⃣ Combine the Batter

Add the granulated sugar, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.

Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter becomes smooth and thin.

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4️⃣ Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.

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5️⃣ Prepare the Vanilla Buttercream

Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until light and fluffy.

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6️⃣ Assemble and Frost

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of vanilla buttercream on top.
Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.

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Tips & Variations

• For a marbled effect, gently swirl extra vanilla batter into the chocolate batter before baking
• Let the cake cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting
• Use a spatula or cake scraper for smooth frosting edges

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Storage Instructions

• Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container
• Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor

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Nutrition & Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Calories: ~450 kcal per slice

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