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Delicious moist chocolate cake topped with chocolate frosting and sprinkles.

Moist Chocolate Cake

This moist chocolate cake is soft, rich, and easy to make, perfect for parties or a simple weeknight treat, topped with a glossy chocolate ganache for a special touch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert, Party Treat
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 580 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (75g)
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk (240ml)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (120ml)
  • 1 cup warm water or coffee (240ml)
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract

For the ganache

  • 300 g dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
  • 2 tbsp butter (optional, for extra shine)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix to combine well.
  • Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth and combined. Gradually pour in the warm water or coffee and whisk until the batter is smooth and runny.
  • Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

Baking

  • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a rack to cool completely.

Making the ganache

  • To make the ganache, heat the cream in a saucepan until hot but not boiling. Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.
  • Stir in butter for extra shine, if using. Let the ganache cool slightly to thicken.

Assembling the cake

  • Layer the cakes with ganache between each layer. Spread more ganache over the top and sides, allowing some to drip down naturally for that rich, glossy finish.

Notes

Serve slices at room temperature so the ganache is slightly soft and glossy. A light dusting of cocoa or a few fresh berries on top adds color. Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Keyword Baking, Chocolate Cake, Dessert Recipe, Ganache Cake, Moist Cake