simple easy chocolate cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
simple easy chocolate cake recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best simple easy chocolate cake recipe

I’m so excited to share this simple easy chocolate cake recipe with you. It’s a classic recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and for good reason – it’s a crowd-pleaser. The first time I made it, I was blown away by how moist and rich the cake was.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is perfect for them to get involved.

We’ve made it for birthdays, holidays, and just because. It’s a staple in our household, and I know it will be in yours too. I remember my grandmother telling me that the key to a great chocolate cake is using high-quality cocoa powder.

She would always say that it makes all the difference in the flavor and texture of the cake. And let me tell you, she was right. Using high-quality ingredients is essential when making this recipe.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. We’ve made it in a round cake pan, a square pan, and even individual cupcakes. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a special event or just a Tuesday.

As for storage, we always store our leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can easily freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave or oven.

Simple Easy Chocolate Cake

Simple Easy Chocolate Cake

4.8 from 1452 votes

This one-bowl chocolate cake is moist, fluffy, and deeply chocolatey. It uses basic pantry ingredients and comes together in minutes.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting (optional)

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

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
3In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
4Make a well in the center and add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
5Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
6Carefully stir in the boiling water; the batter will be thin.
7Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
8Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto the rack to cool completely before frosting.
10To make the frosting, beat the softened butter in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until creamy.
11Add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar alternately with the milk, beating on low speed until combined, then beat in the vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable.
12Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
13Slice and serve.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
9×13 inch baking pan
Cooling rack
Electric mixer (for frosting)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Simple Easy Chocolate Cake Works

This simple easy chocolate cake recipe is one I turn to again and again. It works for birthdays, holidays, or just a random Tuesday night when you want something sweet. The cake stays moist for days and the flavor only gets better.

I always feel confident bringing this to a family gathering because everyone from kids to grandparents loves it. It is a no fuss dessert that delivers every single time. For serving, I like to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds to bring back that fresh from the oven feel. This cake is a keeper and I hope it becomes one in your kitchen too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Cake

Q: What type of cocoa powder should I use?

For this recipe, we recommend using high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder. It will give your cake a richer, deeper flavor than natural cocoa powder.

Q: Can I use milk instead of water?

Sure! Using milk instead of water will give your cake a creamy texture and flavor. Just be aware that it may not hold its shape as well as using water.

Q: How long does it take to make?

This recipe is quick and easy – we’re talking about 10-15 minutes prep time and 30-40 minutes baking time.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend and proceed with the rest of the recipe as instructed.

Q: How do I ensure my cake doesn’t sink?

To prevent your cake from sinking, make sure you don’t overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients.

Similar Posts