Every bite of this chocolate cake is a little moment of indulgence—moist, rich, and deeply chocolatey without being too sweet. It’s the kind of cake that feels luxurious but is simple enough to whip up for birthdays, gatherings, or even a weeknight craving.
With a tender crumb and a silky chocolate frosting to match, this homemade chocolate cake gives any boxed mix a serious run for its money.
⏱ Prep Time 20 minutes ｜ 🔥 Cook Time 30 minutes ｜ 🍽 Servings 10–12 slices ｜ 🌱 Difficulty Level Easy ｜ 📦 Storage Tips Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5. Freezes beautifully without frosting.
Ingredients List
For the cake:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee for deeper flavor)
For the frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk (more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep oven and pans: Preheat to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Slowly stir in boiling water (batter will be thin).
- Bake: Divide batter into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to racks to cool completely.
- Make frosting: Beat butter and cocoa powder together. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, beating until fluffy. Stir in vanilla.
- Frost and serve: Once cake layers are cool, frost and stack. Slice and enjoy!
💡 Recipe Notes / Tips
Use hot coffee instead of boiling water for richer chocolate depth.
Want cupcakes? Bake in lined tins for 18–20 minutes.
Level your cakes with a serrated knife for neat layers.
🧮 Nutrition Info (approx. per slice, 12 servings)
- Calories: 450
- Carbs: 60g
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 42g
❓ FAQs
- Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results. - Q: How do I keep it moist?
A: Don’t overbake and keep it tightly wrapped once cooled. - Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Absolutely. Wrap unfrosted layers in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months.
Baked this dreamy chocolate delight? Slice, share, and tag your cake with #the_food_pedia on Instagram 🍫🎂
