Classic Chocolate Cake

Why Make This Recipe

Classic Chocolate Cake is a timeless treat that brings joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, celebration, or just a sweet craving, this cake is sure to please everyone. It’s rich, moist, and covered in smooth chocolate frosting. The combination of simple ingredients makes it easy to whip up in your own kitchen.

How to Make Classic Chocolate Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in boiling water (the batter will be thin). Pour evenly into the prepared pans.
5. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.
7. For the frosting, combine butter, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar in a bowl, adding milk as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency. Mix well and frost the cooled cakes.

How to Serve Classic Chocolate Cake

Serve this delicious chocolate cake as is, or dress it up with fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add an attractive touch. Each slice is sure to make anyone smile.

How to Store Classic Chocolate Cake

To keep your Classic Chocolate Cake fresh, store it at room temperature covered with plastic wrap for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Classic Chocolate Cake

• Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs and milk. This helps create a smooth batter.
• Don’t skip the boiling water; it helps to dissolve the cocoa powder and makes the cake moist.
• Use quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
• Make sure to cool the cakes completely before frosting them to avoid melting.

Variation

You can try adding chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness. You can also swap out the cocoa powder for a different flavor, like vanilla or almond, for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead of time. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature until you’re ready to frost and serve.

2. Can I use a different size of cake pans?
Yes, you can use different sizes, but keep in mind the baking time may vary. Smaller pans will bake faster, while larger pans may need more time.

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.