Description
Decadent Chocolate Cake
A moist and tender Chocolate Cake made extra special with a hint of sweetness and topped with smooth chocolate frosting. Perfect for all chocolate cravings!
Ingredients:
1 3/4 cups flour
3/4 cup cocoa powder
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup oil
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 cup hot water
2 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease and prepare pans.
Whisk dry ingredients (flour, cocoa, sugar, baking soda/powder).
Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Stir well.
Gradually add hot water. Mix until smooth.
Bake for 30 minutes, cool, and finish with chocolate frosting.
#ChocolateFix
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof cake. First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and thoroughly grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and baking powder until no lumps remain. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until just incorporated. The batter will be thick. Next, carefully pour in the hot water. Mix gently until the batter becomes smooth and liquid. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake on the middle rack for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cake is perfect for any occasion. For a classic finish, spread a generous layer of chocolate frosting between the layers and over the entire cake. For a dinner party, garnish with fresh raspberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or edible gold leaf. Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. For a festive touch, decorate with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce.
How-to Summary
- Prep: Preheat oven to 180°C. Grease and line cake pans.
- Mix Dry: Whisk flour, cocoa, sugar, baking soda, and powder.
- Mix Wet: Whisk eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla.
- Combine: Stir wet into dry until just mixed.
- Add Water: Gently mix in hot water for a smooth batter.
- Bake: Divide batter, bake 30-35 mins until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool & Frost: Cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make buttermilk at home? Yes! Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly.
Why is hot water added to the batter? The hot water “blooms” the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor. It also helps create a moist, tender crumb by thinning the batter.
Can I use this recipe for cupcakes? Absolutely. Fill lined cupcake tins 2/3 full and bake for 18-22 minutes. This recipe makes about 24 cupcakes.
How should I store the finished cake? Store the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
What if I don’t have two cake pans? You can bake one layer at a time, keeping the remaining batter at room temperature. Alternatively, bake the entire batch in a 9×13 inch pan for 35-40 minutes for a sheet cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Once you add the wet ingredients to the dry, mix only until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough, dense cake.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better emulsification and a more even rise.
- Not properly preparing the pans: Greasing and lining the pans with parchment paper is non-negotiable to prevent sticking and ensure clean removal.
- Frosting a warm cake: Patience is key. Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Ensure the layers are completely cool.
Conclusion
This decadent chocolate cake is a timeless classic that delivers deep chocolate flavor and a perfectly moist texture. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can confidently create a stunning dessert that is sure to impress. Whether for a birthday, celebration, or simply to satisfy a chocolate craving, this recipe is a reliable and delicious choice. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
