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Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Cake

Indulge in the decadence of this rich, velvety chocolate cake, perfect for family gatherings and special celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour Preferably unbleached
  • 2 cups Granulated sugar Can be substituted with natural sweeteners
  • 1.5 cups Unsweetened cocoa powder Use Dutch-processed for a richer flavor
  • 2 teaspoons Baking powder
  • 1.5 teaspoons Baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Plus a pinch for frosting
  • 1 cup Milk Can substitute with plant-based milk for vegan option
  • 0.5 cups Vegetable oil Oil keeps the cake moist
  • 2 large Eggs Substitute with flax eggs for vegan option
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Boiling water Helps bloom the cocoa
For the Frosting
  • 0.5 cups Softened butter Use European-style for creaminess
  • 1.5 cups Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4 cups Powdered sugar
  • 6-8 tablespoons Milk for Frosting Adjust for desired consistency

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two 9-inch round pans with parchment paper, spraying lightly with non-stick spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  3. Slowly whisk in milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth.
  4. Carefully stir in boiling water; you’ll notice that the batter will become thin.
Baking
  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto cooling racks to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. For the frosting, beat together softened butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
  2. Gradually add milk until desired consistency is achieved.
  3. Generously spread the frosting between the cooled cakes and over the top and sides; letting it sit overnight enhances the flavor beautifully.

Notes

Serve your cake on a beautiful cake stand topped with seasonal berries or chocolate shavings. Ideal for birthdays or cozy family gatherings. Can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.