Print

Classic Chocolate Cake

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Classic Chocolate Cake is rich, moist, and full of deep chocolate flavor. Made with pantry staples, it’s an easy and reliable recipe perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a simple sweet craving. With a fluffy crumb and decadent taste, it’s a timeless dessert everyone loves.

Ingredients

  • 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water or hot coffee
  • Optional: chocolate frosting or ganache

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
  3. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  4. Carefully stir in boiling water or hot coffee. Batter will be thin.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  8. Frost with chocolate frosting or ganache once cooled.

Notes

  • Use hot coffee instead of water to enhance the chocolate flavor.
  • Substitute Dutch-processed cocoa only if adjusting leavening agents accordingly.
  • Optional: Add chocolate chips or fruit preserves between layers for extra richness.
  • To make dairy-free, substitute plant-based milk and use vegan-friendly frosting.
  • Unfrosted cake layers freeze well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/classic-chocolate-cake/