Name: Simple Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485966H11M48S
Total time: PT-485966H11M48S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ 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

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This simple chocolate cake is rich, moist, and perfect for satisfying my chocolate cravings. It’s quick and easy to make, with minimal ingredients and steps. Whether I’m baking it for a special occasion or just because I want a slice of something sweet, this cake is a go-to recipe that never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fuss-free yet delivers a decadent chocolate flavor. The texture is light and fluffy, making it perfect for layering with frosting or enjoying on its own. It requires simple ingredients that I usually have in my pantry, and the process is straightforward enough for any skill level. Plus, it’s great for both beginners and experienced bakers alike!

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ 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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
Gradually pour in the boiling water, stirring continuously. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay!
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings. It typically takes around 10 minutes to prep and about 30-35 minutes to bake. Once the cakes are cooled, they can be frosted or served as is.

Variations

Frosting: I can add a rich chocolate ganache, whipped cream, or even a simple buttercream frosting to elevate the cake. For a different twist, I might top it with fresh berries or sprinkles.
Add-ins: Sometimes, I like to fold in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Cupcakes: I can easily turn this recipe into cupcakes by dividing the batter into cupcake liners. They will bake for about 18-20 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

I usually store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If I have frosted the cake, I’ll refrigerate it to maintain freshness, and it will last for up to a week. To reheat a slice, I warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

How can I make this cake even more chocolatey?

To intensify the chocolate flavor, I can use dark cocoa powder or add extra chocolate chips to the batter. A drizzle of melted chocolate ganache would also do the trick.

Can I make this cake without eggs?

Yes, I can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg) or use a flaxseed meal mixture as an egg replacer. It’ll work well for a vegan version!

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Definitely! I can bake the cake a day or two ahead and store it in an airtight container. It will still taste fresh when I frost and serve it.

What type of frosting goes best with this cake?

While chocolate frosting is always a classic choice, I love pairing it with vanilla buttercream or even a cream cheese frosting for a slightly tangy contrast.

Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?

Yes, I can easily double the ingredients to make a larger cake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if using bigger pans.

Conclusion

This simple chocolate cake has quickly become one of my favorite recipes for a reason! It’s so easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a decadent treat every time. Whether I’m baking for a crowd or just indulging in a sweet moment by myself, it never disappoints.