Ultimate Classic Chocolate Cake

Indulge in the timeless pleasure of a Classic Chocolate Cake that embodies the essence of rich, velvety cocoa. Perfect for any occasion, this cake offers a moist, tender crumb and a deep chocolate flavor that is both comforting and luxurious. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply satisfying a chocolate craving, this recipe will become your go-to for creating the perfect cake every time.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
• For the Chocolate Frosting:
  • 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar
  • ½ cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup (60ml) whole milk or heavy cream

Instructions:

For the Cake:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper circles for easier removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
   Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Incorporate Boiling Water:
   Slowly add the boiling water to the batter, mixing on low speed until the water is fully incorporated. The batter will be thin, but this helps create a moist cake.
5. Bake the Cakes:
   Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool:
   Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Chocolate Frosting:

1. Cream Butter:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth.
2. Add Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt, mixing on low speed until combined.
3. Add Vanilla and Milk:
   Add the vanilla extract and ¼ cup of milk or heavy cream. Beat on medium-high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
4. Frost the Cake:
   Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of frosting over the top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the frosting with a spatula for a clean finish, or add swirls and peaks for a more rustic look.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Slice and serve your Classic Chocolate Cake, and enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness with every bite!