old fashioned chocolate cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
old fashioned chocolate cake recipe
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The Best old fashioned chocolate cake recipe

I’ve been making this old-fashioned chocolate cake recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in my household. My kids love it, and I love how easy it is to whip up. The key to this recipe is using high-quality cocoa powder, which gives the cake its rich, deep flavor.

I also like to use buttermilk instead of regular milk, which adds a tanginess that complements the sweetness of the sugar perfectly. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a Tuesday evening. And the best part?

It’s actually pretty healthy compared to other desserts out there – the cocoa powder is full of antioxidants, and the whole wheat flour used in this recipe makes it a great option for those looking for a more wholesome treat. When I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed, there’s nothing like taking a break from my busy life and baking this cake to make me feel better. It’s like a warm hug in a pan.

The first time I made this cake was when my daughter was just a toddler – she loved helping me mix the batter together, and we’d spend hours baking it together in the kitchen. Now that she’s all grown up, she still requests this cake whenever we’re together. That’s how much we both love it!

It’s truly a family favorite that never gets old.

Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake

Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake

4.8 from 1177 votes

A moist and tender chocolate cake with a rich, fudgy frosting. This classic recipe uses simple ingredients for a deeply satisfying dessert.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

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 the oven to 350°F.
2Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
3In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4Whisk until well combined.
5Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract.
6Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.
7Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly pour in the boiling water.
8Mix until just incorporated; the batter will be thin.
9Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
10Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
11Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
12For the frosting, cream the butter in a large bowl.
13Add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar alternately with the milk, beating on medium speed until smooth and spreadable.
14Stir in the vanilla.
15Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
16Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.

🔧Equipment

Two 9-inch round cake pans
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Wire cooling racks
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 65g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 45g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder. The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake Works

This old fashioned chocolate cake is the kind of recipe you will make again and again. It works for birthday parties, potlucks, or just a quiet night at home. My family always asks for it, and I never get tired of baking it.

To store the cake, keep it in a covered cake stand or wrap it in plastic wrap. It stays moist for days. If you want to serve it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for fifteen seconds.

You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. That makes it even better. For a special touch, drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top.

This cake is always a good idea.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake

1. Can I make this cake without buttermilk?

Yes, you can. If you do not have buttermilk, add one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk. Let it sit for five minutes. It will look curdled but that is okay. Use it in place of the buttermilk.

2. Why does this recipe call for hot coffee?

The hot coffee helps bloom the cocoa powder. This makes the chocolate flavor deeper and richer. The coffee itself does not make the cake taste like coffee. It just enhances the chocolate.

3. How do I store this chocolate cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have leftover cake, you can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months.

4. Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes?

Yes, this batter works great for cupcakes. Fill the cupcake liners about two thirds full. Bake at 350 degrees for 18 to 22 minutes. Check with a toothpick. It should come out clean.

5. What frosting goes best with this cake?

A simple chocolate buttercream is my favorite. You can also use a cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar. The cake is sturdy enough to hold a thicker frosting.

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