Nothing beats the comfort and joy of a classic homemade chocolate cake. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe delivers a moist, rich, and deeply chocolatey cake that’s easy to make from scratch. With simple pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a bakery-quality dessert right at home.
This cake pairs perfectly with a luscious chocolate frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar, making it versatile for any occasion or personal preference.
Ingredients
Makes one 9-inch, two-layer cake (about 12 servings)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra tenderness)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 30 to 35 minutes
- Cooling time: 20 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients (except water)
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently to combine.
Step 5: Add Boiling Water
- Slowly pour in the boiling water, stirring continuously. The batter will be thin — this is normal and helps create a moist cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
- Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Remove from pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Serving Suggestions
- Frost with classic chocolate buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
- Serve with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elegant presentation.
- Pair with coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the rich chocolate flavor.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice, approx. 1/12 cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 14 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 2 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 52 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 35 grams |
| Sodium | 320 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Cocoa powder provides antioxidants and rich chocolate flavor without excess fat.
- Buttermilk or whole milk adds tenderness and subtle tanginess to balance sweetness.
- Eggs contribute protein and structure to the cake.
- This cake delivers a satisfying balance of moisture and crumb that pleases every chocolate lover.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the boiling water to keep the cake tender.
- Make sure your oven is properly preheated for even baking.
- Cool the cakes completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Variations to Try
- Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate depth.
- Substitute part of the flour with almond flour for a nutty undertone and moist crumb.
- Swirl in peanut butter or caramel before baking for a decadent surprise.
- Top with fresh fruit and whipped cream for a lighter dessert option.
This Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Cake recipe is a timeless favorite that delivers moistness, rich flavor, and a tender crumb with easy-to-follow steps. Perfect for celebrations or any time you want a truly comforting dessert, this cake will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire.