Simple Chocolate Cake

Delicious simple chocolate cake topped with chocolate frosting and sprinkles

Table of Contents

This deliciously moist Simple Chocolate Cake will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. With its rich cocoa flavor and simple steps, you can whip up this cake for celebrations, birthdays, or just a cozy night in. It’s a classic dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55-55 minutes
  • Servings: 12 servings
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 335
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Sodium: 300mg

Why Make This Simple Chocolate Cake

Making a Simple Chocolate Cake allows you to indulge in a rich, flavor-packed dessert without complex techniques or ingredients. This cake is known for its deep chocolaty goodness, moist crumb, and appealing aroma that fills your kitchen while baking. It’s perfect for any occasion or as a special treat to enjoy with loved ones. Plus, it’s a fantastic base for frosting or even serving alongside ice cream!

How to Make Simple Chocolate Cake

Baking this cake is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake your own delightful cake.

Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated 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:

  • Step 1: Preparation

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent the cake from sticking.

  • Step 2: Mixing

    In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

  • Step 3: Cooking

    Add in the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth. Carefully stir in the boiling water –– the batter will be thin, but don’t worry; this is normal! Pour the batter into your prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

  • Step 4: Finishing

    Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on wire racks. Once cooled, you can frost with your favorite chocolate frosting if desired.

How to Serve Simple Chocolate Cake

Serve this delectable chocolate cake at room temperature, or warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. It’s also delightful when paired with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

How to Store Simple Chocolate Cake

Store any leftover chocolate cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just make sure to frost it after thawing for the best flavor and appearance!

Expert Tips for Perfect Simple Chocolate Cake

  • Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for the best texture.
  • Use high-quality cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can make the cake tough.
  • Test your cake for doneness using a toothpick; if it comes out with moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Delicious Variations

  • Chocolate Mint Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing twist.
  • Nutty Chocolate Cake: Mix in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
  • Dark Chocolate Cake: Substitute half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
    Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for optimal results.

  • What’s the best frosting for this cake?
    A classic chocolate buttercream works wonders, but cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar also make great toppings.

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can bake and cool the cake a day in advance. Just store it properly to maintain freshness.

  • How can I make this cake more chocolaty?
    Try using a chocolate ganache instead of frosting, or add chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

  • Is it possible to turn this into a layered cake?
    Yes! Simply bake the batter in three cake pans instead of two and stack them with frosting in between for a classic layered look.

Conclusion

This Simple Chocolate Cake is a wonderful addition to any dessert repertoire. Its ease of preparation, combined with the intense chocolate flavor, makes it a treat everyone will love. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sweet indulgence, this cake is sure to please. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create a sensational dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds! Happy baking!

Print
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Simple Chocolate Cake


  • Author: lydia
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This deliciously moist Simple Chocolate Cake will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings with its rich cocoa flavor and simple steps.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated 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

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
  3. Add in the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth. Carefully stir in the boiling water.
  4. Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
  5. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and let cool completely on wire racks.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 335
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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Pro Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Lydia, the passionate culinary creator behind Ninja Machine Recipes! I firmly believe that amazing food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here at Ninja Machine Recipes, I share my favorite recipes that bring loved ones together around the dinner table – from quick weeknight solutions to special celebration treats.

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