Description
This homemade chocolate cake is a rich and moist dessert that’s easy to make from scratch. Featuring a combination of cocoa powder and boiling water that enhances the chocolate flavor, this cake is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can enjoy a classic, indulgent treat that yields two layers of deliciousness.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes don’t stick.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. This ensures all the dry components are evenly distributed.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix everything until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate boiling water: Carefully and gradually add the boiling water to the batter while stirring continuously. The batter will become thin, which is normal and necessary for a moist cake texture.
- Pour batter into pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops if needed.
- Bake the cakes: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
Notes
- Ensure the boiling water is added gradually to prevent splattering and help blend the batter smoothly.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
- This recipe makes two 9-inch round cake layers that can be stacked with your favorite frosting.
- Use room temperature eggs and milk for better mixing and texture.
- To make clean cake layers, use a serrated knife to level the cakes before frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
