Is there anything more comforting than a slice of homemade chocolate cake? Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a party, or just craving something sweet, chocolate cake always feels like a treat made with love. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker to make a cake that looks (and tastes) like it came straight from a bakery. With simple ingredients, a few pro tips, and a little creativity, this recipe will become your go-to whenever you want to impress family and friends.
This cake is everything you want in a dessert: soft, moist layers of chocolate sponge, rich buttercream frosting, and the kind of deep, chocolatey flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to boxed cake mixes again. Let’s get baking!
🥘 Ingredients (Serves 10–12)
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee (or hot water for a milder flavor)
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add in the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla, mixing until smooth and well combined. Finally, pour in the hot coffee and stir until the batter is thin and glossy.
2. Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat the butter until light and fluffy, then gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Add in vanilla and a pinch of salt, then slowly mix in the cream until the frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
4. Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Stack the second cake layer over it, then frost the entire cake, smoothing the sides and top. For a rustic look, leave textured swirls with your spatula.
5. Decorate & Serve
Top with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of caramel. Slice and serve with a glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries for the perfect finishing touch.
✨ Tips & Variations
- Extra Moist Cake: Replace half the oil with sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra richness.
- Make Ahead: Bake the cake layers a day early, wrap them in plastic, and store in the fridge. Frost the next day for stress-free entertaining.
- Cupcake Option: This batter makes about 24 cupcakes. Reduce baking time to 18–20 minutes.
- Kid-Friendly: Add colorful sprinkles or turn into a birthday cake with candles.
- Elegant Twist: Layer the cake with whipped cream and fresh raspberries for a dinner-party-worthy dessert.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chocolate cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration in itself. The rich, moist crumb and decadent frosting make every bite indulgent, while the simple process keeps it approachable for even beginner bakers. It’s versatile enough to dress up for a fancy dinner or keep casual for a weekend treat.
No matter how you serve it, this ultimate chocolate cake recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table. Save this recipe, share it with friends, and get ready for compliments—because once they taste it, everyone will want your secret!
