Why You’ll Adore This Chocolate Cake Recipe
This simple chocolate cake is not just any dessert; it brings joy to every occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a family gathering, or a casual weeknight treat, this cake will be the star of the show. Its rich, chocolatey flavor and moist texture make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can whip it up without any fuss!
How to Create a Delicious Simple Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
- 400 g granulated sugar (2 cups)
- 245 g flour (1¾ cups)
- 75 g cocoa powder (¾ cup, unsweetened)
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 240 ml warm water or coffee (1 cup)
- 240 ml milk (1 cup)
- 120 ml vegetable oil (corn, sunflower, canola, etc.)
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 180 g dark or semi-sweet chocolate (coarsely chopped)
- 226 g butter at room temperature (1 cup)
- 230 g powdered sugar (2 cups, sifted)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, warm water (or coffee), vegetable oil, and vanilla to the dry mix. Stir until your batter is nice and smooth.
- Split the batter into two equal portions and pour them into greased 8–9-inch cake pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool.
For the frosting:
- Melt the chopped chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave. Let it cool slightly.
- Use a mixer to beat the room-temperature butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing well.
- Stir in the melted chocolate and beat until you have a smooth frosting.
To assemble the cake:
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate.
- Spread half of the frosting over the first layer.
- Top with the second cake layer and apply the remaining frosting to the top and sides.
Let your cake sit at room temperature or in the fridge for a little while before slicing. Feel free to decorate with chocolate chips or shavings for extra flair.
How to Enjoy Your Chocolate Cake
Slice up your delicious cake and serve it on lovely dessert plates. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream always pairs well with chocolate cake, adding a creamy contrast to the rich flavors. For a little crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top or serve with fresh berries for a fruity touch.
Tips for Storing Your Chocolate Cake
To keep your chocolate cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature a bit before serving so it’s nice and soft.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Chocolate Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Sifting: Sift your dry ingredients to ensure there are no lumps and your cake is light and fluffy.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until blended to avoid a dense texture.
Fun Variations to Try
Feel free to switch things up! Add a layer of raspberry or cherry filling between the cake layers for a fruity surprise. You can also play with different frostings, using cream cheese or vanilla buttercream as alternatives.
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional information may vary, a typical slice (1/12 of the cake) contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 3g
Serving Ideas for the Whole Family
This cake is perfect for any family gathering. You can serve it with coffee, tea, or even milk for the kids. It makes a great dessert after dinner or a sweet snack during the day.
Perfect Pairings with Your Chocolate Cake
Pair your cake with a rich cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a festive touch, serve it alongside sparkling juices or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the chocolatey goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to ensure my chocolate cake is moist?
Make sure not to overbake the cake. Checking it with a toothpick a few minutes before the timer goes off helps prevent dryness.
Can I freeze the chocolate cake?
Yes! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to three months.
How can I make the frosting more chocolatey?
Add more melted chocolate to the frosting, or even mix in some cocoa powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Delicious Simple Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 400 g granulated sugar (2 cups)
- 245 g flour (1¾ cups)
- 75 g cocoa powder (¾ cup, unsweetened)
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 240 ml warm water or coffee (1 cup)
- 240 ml milk (1 cup)
- 120 ml vegetable oil (corn, sunflower, canola, etc.)
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 180 g dark or semi-sweet chocolate (coarsely chopped)
- 226 g butter (at room temperature, 1 cup)
- 230 g powdered sugar (2 cups, sifted)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, warm water (or coffee), vegetable oil, and vanilla to the dry mix. Stir until your batter is nice and smooth.
- Split the batter into two equal portions and pour them into greased 8–9-inch cake pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool.
Frosting
- Melt the chopped chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave. Let it cool slightly.
- Use a mixer to beat the room-temperature butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing well.
- Stir in the melted chocolate and beat until you have a smooth frosting.
Assembly
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate.
- Spread half of the frosting over the first layer.
- Top with the second cake layer and apply the remaining frosting to the top and sides.
