Homemade Chocolate Cake
Diving into the world of baking brings a sense of accomplishment and joy, especially when it involves chocolate cake. The aroma of cocoa and the sweet satisfaction of a homemade cake are unparalleled. This article walks you through a simple yet delightful recipe for homemade chocolate cake that promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why Try This Recipe?
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this chocolate cake recipe offers the perfect balance of simplicity and decadence. It’s an all-occasion dessert that combines the rich, deep flavors of cocoa with the moist and tender crumb that every cake lover dreams of. Plus, the process of making it from scratch adds a personal touch that can’t be matched by store-bought options.
Ingredients Summary
The cake base requires common pantry staples, ensuring you can whip up this treat without a special shopping trip. You’ll need all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, eggs, butter, milk, black coffee, and vegetable oil. The frosting, a creamy concoction of unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy whipping cream, and chocolate chips, adds a luscious layer that complements the cake perfectly.
Storage Information
To keep the cake tasting fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. If you prefer, you can also freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
Baking Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.
- For an even more moist cake, don’t overbake. Start checking for doneness at the 10-minute mark.
- Using black coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
- When making the frosting, melt the chocolate chips gently to avoid scorching, ensuring a smooth blend.
FAQ about Homemade Chocolate Cake
- Can I use instant coffee? Yes, instant coffee dissolved in hot water works perfectly.
- Can I make this cake without eggs? For an egg-free version, substitute each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer.
- Can I make the cake in one pan instead of two? Yes, but adjust the baking time as a single thicker layer will take longer to bake through.
- How do I know when the frosting is ready? The frosting will be light, fluffy, and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a little more cream; if too thin, more powdered sugar.
This homemade chocolate cake recipe is not just about creating a delicious dessert, but also about the joy and satisfaction that comes from baking. With straightforward ingredients and steps, it’s a perfect way to add a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Happy baking!
Homemade Chocolate Cake
Equipment
- Mixer
- 2 (8-inch) round cake pans
- Cake stand
Ingredients
For Chocolate Cake:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup butter at room temperature
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup black coffee
- ½ cup vegetable oil
For Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
For Chocolate Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour 2 (8-inch) round cake pans and set them aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In the bowl of your mixer, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed for about two minutes until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating and scraping the sides of the bowl after each addition.
- Add the milk, black coffee, and vegetable oil to the mixture and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients with the mixer on low speed.
- Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
For Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, combine the unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Add the heavy whipping cream and beat for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Melt the chocolate chips and add them to the frosting, beating on medium speed until smooth.
Assembly:
- Place one cake layer on your cake stand and evenly cover the top with frosting.
- Place the second layer on top and cover it with frosting. Spread the frosting evenly around the sides of the cake.
- Decorate the cake as desired.
