Chocolate cake recipe

Decadent Chocolate Cake Recipe

Chocolate cake is a timeless dessert that’s beloved by many. Rich, moist, and full of chocolate flavor, it's perfect for any occasion. Here’s a detailed recipe for making a delicious chocolate cake from scratch, including ingredients, steps, and tips for success.

 Ingredients:

For the Cake:

- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

- 2 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

For the Frosting:

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar

- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

- ½ teaspoon salt

- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

- ⅓ cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: 

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans or line them with parchment paper circles.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: 

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps to combine the ingredients and remove any lumps.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients:

 In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well blended.

4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: 

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.

5. Add Boiling Water: 

Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this step helps to keep the cake moist.

2. Bake the Cake:

1. Pour Batter into Pans: 

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

2. Bake:

 Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

3. Cool: 

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

3. Prepare the Frosting:

1. Cream Butter: 

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth.

2. Add Dry Ingredients: 

Sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Gradually add this mixture to the butter, beating on low speed until well incorporated.

3. Add Vanilla and Cream: 

Add the salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Increase the mixer speed to high and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more cream; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

4. Assemble the Cake:

1. Level the Cakes: 

If necessary, level the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife to create an even surface.

2. Frost the First Layer:

 Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.

3. Add the Second Layer: 

Place the second cake layer on top of the first and apply a thin coat of frosting over the entire cake (this is called a crumb coat). Refrigerate for 15 minutes.

4. Final Frosting: 

Apply the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

5. Finishing Touches:

- Decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries if desired.

- Slice and serve the cake at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for Success:

- Use room temperature ingredients for better blending.

- Measure accurately to ensure the cake’s texture is just right.

- Don’t over mix the batter to keep the cake tender.

- Cool the cake completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Enjoy this luscious chocolate cake, which is sure to delight chocolate lovers and impress your guests with its rich flavor and moist texture.