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Deliciously Moist Chocolate Layer Cake

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A rich and moist chocolate layer cake perfect for any occasion, delivering chocolatey goodness with a tender crumb.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 26 minutes
Total Time 46 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients
  • 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
  • 1 and 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons espresso powder optional, but highly recommended
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk or regular milk with a splash of vinegar
  • 1 cup freshly brewed strong hot coffee
Frosting Ingredients
  • 1 and 1/4 cups unsalted butter for frosting
  • 3 and 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder for frosting
  • 3-5 tablespoons heavy cream optional, for frosting consistency
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt for frosting
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for frosting
  • semi-sweet chocolate chips for decoration, optional

Method
 

Preparation and Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. Grease two 9-inch cake pans and line them with parchment paper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using).
  4. In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until blended. Then add the buttermilk and mix well.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, followed by the piping hot coffee. Stir until everything is just combined.
  6. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 23-26 minutes. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
  7. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting and Assembly
  1. Beat the unsalted butter until creamy, then add confectioners' sugar, cocoa powder, salt, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until it’s smooth and fluffy.
  2. Level the cakes, frost between the layers, and cover the top and sides. Optionally, sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
  3. Refrigerate the cake for 30-60 minutes before serving to set the frosting.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 35g

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients and do not skip the espresso powder for a flavor boost. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to one week, or freeze individual slices for longer storage.
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