Top-Rated Chocolate Cake
Rich, moist, and intensely chocolatey, this cake is the ultimate dessert for marking any special occasion. With soft cocoa-infused layers and a silky, decadent chocolate frosting, it’s a stunning centerpiece that satisfies every chocolate lover at the table.
Best Chocolate Cake
🛒 Ingredients
| Category | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cake | 2 cups all-purpose flour | Gives the cake structure |
| 2 cups granulated sugar | Sweetens the batter | |
| ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder | Deep chocolate flavor | |
| 2 tsp baking powder | Helps the cake rise | |
| 1½ tsp baking soda | Extra lift | |
| 1 tsp salt | Enhances overall flavor | |
| 1 cup milk | Adds moisture | |
| ½ cup vegetable oil | Keeps the crumb tender | |
| 2 large eggs | Provides richness and structure | |
| 2 tsp vanilla extract | Adds warmth | |
| 1 cup hot water | Intensifies cocoa flavor | |
| Frosting | 1 cup unsalted butter, softened | Creamy base |
| 3½ cups powdered sugar | Sweetness | |
| ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder | Chocolate depth | |
| ½ cup milk | Smooth consistency | |
| 2 tsp vanilla extract | Flavor | |
| Pinch of salt | Balances sweetness |
👩🍳 Instructions
Making the Cake
1. Preheat the Oven
- Heat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Make the Batter
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture.
- Slowly stir in the hot water until the batter is thin and fully blended.
5. Bake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Turn out onto wire racks and allow to cool completely.
Preparing the Frosting
7. Cream the Butter
- Beat the softened butter until pale and creamy.
8. Finish the Frosting
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla, and salt.
- Beat until light, fluffy, and smooth.
Assemble the Cake
9. Layer and Frost
- Spread frosting evenly over one cooled cake layer.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides.
10. Set the Cake
- Chill in the freezer for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts and the best texture.
✨ Moist, indulgent, and full of chocolate flavor, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you want to impress with a classic homemade dessert.
