Chocolate Layer Cake is a classic and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you want a chocolatey treat.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee for a richer flavor)
For the chocolate frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup whole milk (more if needed)
A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the cake pans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
2. Make the cake batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well combined.
Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed using an electric mixer until smooth and well-combined (about 2-3 minutes).
Gradually add the boiling water (or coffee), mixing until the batter becomes thin and smooth. This is normal!
3. Bake the cake:
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. (Can cut cake to make up to 4 layers)
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the chocolate frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Sift the cocoa powder into the butter, then add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and milk. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase speed to medium-high and beat until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and light. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, 1 tbsp at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Assemble the cake:
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place the first layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
Spread a layer of frosting over the top of the first cake layer.
Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula.
6. Serve and enjoy:
Slice and serve your homemade 2-layer chocolate cake. It's perfect for any celebration or simply as a sweet treat.
Enjoy your rich and fluffy chocolate cake!