Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this chocolate layer cake. Perfect for any celebration or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake boasts moist layers of chocolatey goodness paired with a creamy, luscious frosting. It's a timeless classic that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
While most of the ingredients for this chocolate layer cake are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up a few items if you don't already have them. Make sure you have unsweetened cocoa powder and powdered sugar on hand, as these are essential for both the cake and the frosting. Additionally, ensure you have whole milk and unsalted butter for the best results.
Ingredients For Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe
All-purpose flour: A staple in baking, providing structure to the cake.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor.
Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Baking soda: Works with baking powder to leaven the cake.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Vanilla extract: Adds a depth of flavor to both the cake and frosting.
Boiling water: Helps to bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing the chocolate flavor.
Unsalted butter: The base for the frosting, providing a creamy texture.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When mixing the batter, ensure that the boiling water is added slowly and steadily. This helps to prevent the cocoa powder from clumping and ensures a smooth, lump-free mixture. Additionally, using room temperature eggs and milk will help the cake to rise more evenly and achieve a better texture.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, but it may make the cake denser.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweeter and caffeine-free, making it a good alternative for those avoiding caffeine.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Mix 1 part baking soda with 2 parts cream of tartar to create a homemade baking powder.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use three times the amount of baking powder as a substitute for baking soda, but it may affect the taste slightly.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same amount and may add a slightly different mineral flavor.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can reduce the fat content and add moisture, though it may make the cake slightly denser.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor to chocolate.
boiling water - Substitute with hot coffee: Hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, making it richer and more intense.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a non-dairy alternative that can be used in the same amount.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Blend coconut sugar in a blender to create a powdered form, which is a less processed alternative.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Dutch-processed cocoa has a smoother, less acidic taste and can be used in the same amount.
whole milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture and a slight coconut flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and can be used in the same amount.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cake
How to Store or Freeze This Cake
Allow the chocolate layer cake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
For short-term storage, place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If you need to keep the cake fresh for a longer period, refrigerate it. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. It can be refrigerated for up to a week.
To freeze the cake, first, ensure it is completely cooled. Wrap each layer individually in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps to prevent freezer burn.
Place the wrapped layers in a large, resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
The chocolate layer cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the layers in the refrigerator overnight.
Once thawed, bring the cake to room temperature before serving. This ensures the frosting and cake have the best texture and flavor.
If you have leftover slices, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. This makes it easy to grab a single serving whenever you crave a piece of chocolate cake.
For an extra touch, you can freeze the frosting separately. Place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and re-whip before using to restore its creamy texture.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the chocolate layer cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Warm it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
For a quicker method, use the microwave. Place a slice of cake on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and repeat in 10-second intervals if needed.
If you have a steam oven, this is a fantastic option. Set the steam oven to a low temperature, around 250°F (120°C), and steam the cake for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the cake soft.
For those with a sous-vide setup, place the cake in a vacuum-sealed bag or a zip-lock bag with the air removed. Submerge it in a water bath set to 140°F (60°C) for about 30 minutes. This gentle method ensures even reheating without drying out the cake.
If you prefer a stovetop method, use a double boiler. Place the cake on a heatproof plate or bowl and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover the cake with a lid or foil and steam for about 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure it’s heated through.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the cake layers at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).
9-inch round baking pans: These pans are essential for baking the cake layers evenly.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine and mix the dry and wet ingredients for the cake batter.
Electric mixer: Useful for beating the cake batter and frosting to the right consistency.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and oil.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract.
Spatula: Handy for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and spreading the frosting.
Wire racks: Used for cooling the cake layers after they are baked.
Toothpick: Helps to check if the cake is fully baked by inserting it into the center of the cake.
Saucepan: Used to boil water, which is then added to the cake batter.
Cooling racks: Essential for allowing the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Cake stand or serving plate: Provides a stable surface for assembling and serving the cake.
Offset spatula: Ideal for spreading the frosting smoothly over the cake layers and sides.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure all ingredients before starting to save time during the baking process.
Use parchment paper: Line your baking pans with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.
Room temperature items: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Boil water in advance: Boil the water ahead of time so it’s ready when you need it.
Double up: Make extra frosting and freeze it for future use.
Cooling racks: Use cooling racks to speed up the cooling process.
Electric mixer: Use an electric mixer to save time on beating the batter and frosting.
Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups sugar
- 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk room temperature
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 3.5 cups powdered sugar
- 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 0.5 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water (batter will be thin).
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes, then remove from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the butter in a medium bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating until smooth. Add the milk and vanilla, and beat until light and fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cakes. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread with frosting, then top with the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses
More Amazing Recipes to Try 🙂
- Deviled Eggs Recipe25 Minutes
- Rhubarb Chutney Recipe1 Hours
- Peach Chutney Recipe1 Hours
- Stuffed Mushroom Caps Recipe35 Minutes
- Jalapeño Poppers Recipe35 Minutes
- Tropical Trifle Recipe20 Minutes
- Strawberry Rhubarb Parfait Recipe25 Minutes
- Spiced Cookies Recipe27 Minutes
Leave a Reply