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Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

Chocolate Layer Cake

A moist and tender chocolate layer cake with rich frosting, perfect for any celebration.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour For structure
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the cake
  • 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder Gives chocolate flavor
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking soda Leavening agent
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil Adds moisture
  • 1 cup buttermilk Tenderizes and moistens
  • 2 large eggs Provides structure and moisture
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Flavor enhancer
  • 1 cup boiling water Helps to bloom cocoa
For the Frosting
  • 1 cup unsalted butter Base for frosting
  • 3.5 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens frosting
  • 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder Adds chocolate flavor to frosting
  • 0.5 cups heavy cream For smooth texture
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Flavor enhancer

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add the oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
  4. Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin). Pour evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
Frosting
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa, alternating with heavy cream, beating until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Add vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
Assembling
  1. Level the tops of the cooled cakes if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.
  2. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
  3. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

For a more intense chocolate flavor, use a combination of dark and milk chocolate in the frosting. If the cake is warm, let it cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.