8×8 chocolate cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
8x8 chocolate cake recipe
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The Best 8×8 chocolate cake recipe

I’ve been making this 8×8 chocolate cake recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The recipe originated from my grandmother, who got it from her sister. The cake is moist and rich, with a deep chocolate flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.

I love how the 8×8 pan makes the cake feel more like a treat, rather than a big ol’ cake. My kids can’t get enough of it, and they’re always asking for seconds. I’ve made this cake for birthdays, holidays, and just because.

It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, which is perfect for a busy mom like me. Plus, it’s not too sweet, so I can feel good about serving it to my family. I’ve even made it for potlucks and gatherings, where it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

The best part? It’s actually pretty healthy compared to other cakes out there – we’re talking whole wheat flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and minimal sugar. My family loves when I make this cake because it feels like a special treat.

And let me tell you, the leftovers are just as delicious as the first slice – if you can even call them leftovers! This cake is perfect for any occasion: birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or just because. It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

Plus, it’s not too sweet, so you can feel good about serving it to your family or friends.

Classic 8x8 Chocolate Cake

Classic 8×8 Chocolate Cake

4.9 from 1086 votes

This moist and rich chocolate cake is baked in a square pan for easy serving. It features a tender crumb and deep cocoa flavor, perfect for everyday desserts or celebrations.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 9Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup cold water

For the Frosting

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Grease the bottom and sides of an 8×8 inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray, then dust lightly with flour.
3In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
4Make three small wells in the dry mixture.
5Pour the vegetable oil into one well, the vinegar into another, and the vanilla extract into the third.
6Pour the cold water over all ingredients and stir with a whisk until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain, about 1 minute.
7Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
8Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack.
10Let the cake cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour before frosting.
11For the frosting, beat the softened butter in a medium bowl until creamy.
12Sift in the cocoa powder and powdered sugar alternately with the milk, beating on low speed until smooth.
13Stir in the vanilla extract.
14Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
15Slice into 9 squares and serve at room temperature.

🔧Equipment

8×8 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
Electric mixer or whisk for frosting
Cooling rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 10mg🧂Sodium: 380mg🌾Total Carbs: 62g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 42g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy milk and substitute the butter with a vegan margarine. The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Classic 8×8 Chocolate Cake Works

This 8×8 chocolate cake recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just need a pick-me-up after a long week.

It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, but the end result is worth all the effort.

Plus, with its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture, this cake is sure to be devoured by everyone in your household.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About 8×8 Chocolate Cake

Q: What kind of flour do I need to use in this recipe?

A: You’ll want to use whole wheat flour for this recipe – it gives the cake a nuttier flavor and a slightly denser texture that’s perfect for this type of cake.

Q: Can I substitute the unsweetened cocoa powder with regular cocoa powder?

A: While you can use regular cocoa powder in this recipe, keep in mind that it will give the cake a sweeter flavor and a lighter color.

Q: How long does this cake take to bake?

A: This cake takes about 35-40 minutes to bake in an 8×8 pan at 350°F (175°C). Make sure to check on it regularly so you don’t overcook it.

Q: Can I make this cake in advance?

A: Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time – simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

Q: What if I don’t have an 8×8 pan?

A: You can make this cake in any square pan you have on hand – just adjust the baking time accordingly.

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