Here's a classic recipe for a rich and moist Chocolate Cake that's perfect for any occasion. This recipe includes a delicious chocolate frosting for a complete treat.
Classic Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
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For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (65 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240 ml) boiling water
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For the Chocolate Frosting:
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup (60 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups (375 g) powdered sugar
- ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this helps make a moist cake.
4. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream. Beat until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream or powdered sugar as needed.
6. Frost the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread a layer of frosting over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
7. Serve:
- Decorate with chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.
- Slice and enjoy your rich and moist chocolate cake!
Tips:
- For Extra Moisture: You can add ½ cup of sour cream or buttermilk to the batter for additional moisture.
- Cake Layers: For a more decadent cake, you can cut each cake layer in half horizontally to create four layers and frost between each layer.
This classic chocolate cake is always a crowd-pleaser and perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because. Enjoy your delicious homemade cake!