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Hershey's Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Filling

This rich and moist chocolate cake features a tangy cream cheese filling, perfect for birthdays or dessert nights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 470 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Hershey’s)
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature) Room temperature recommended
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature) Room temperature recommended
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot water or hot coffee Hot coffee enhances chocolate flavor

For the cream cheese filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)

For optional frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3–4 tbsp milk Add until spreadable
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment if desired.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until combined.
  • Stir in hot water or hot coffee slowly until the batter is smooth (the batter will be thin).
  • Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove to a rack to cool completely.

For the cream cheese filling

  • Beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup butter until smooth.
  • Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla, beating until fluffy.

Optional frosting

  • Beat 1 cup butter until creamy.
  • Add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar and 3/4 cup cocoa powder.
  • Add milk 1 tbsp at a time until spreadable and mix in 1 tsp vanilla.

Assembly

  • Place one cake layer on a plate, spread the cream cheese filling evenly over it, then top with the second cake layer.
  • Frost the top and sides with optional frosting if desired.

Notes

Serve at room temperature for best texture. Chill frosted cake for easier slicing. Pair with fresh berries for a beautiful finish.
Keyword BIRTHDAY CAKE, Chocolate Cake, Cream Cheese Filling, Homemade Cake, Layer Cake