There’s something magical about a homemade chocolate cake. The rich aroma filling your kitchen, the anticipation as you slice into its soft, fudgy layers, and that first bite—pure bliss. If you’ve been searching for the ultimate easy chocolate cake recipe, trust me, you’ve just found it. This cake is moist, indulgent, and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total beginner, this recipe will have you whipping up bakery-quality cake in no time. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love Easy Chocolate Cake

Name: Easy Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk; 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup (120ml) boiling water; 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream; 4 ounces (113g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a cozy weekend treat, or just because you deserve a little chocolatey goodness, this cake fits every occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: This cake works for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a weekday pick-me-up. Dress it up with frosting, or enjoy it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Budget-Friendly: You don’t need fancy ingredients—just simple pantry staples you probably already have at home.

Quick and Easy: No complicated techniques, no special equipment, just one bowl and a few simple steps.

Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a hint of coffee to take the flavor to the next level.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Easy Chocolate Cake

Here’s the beauty of this cake—it’s made with simple ingredients, but the result is anything but basic. Let’s break it down:

Flour: The base of the cake, giving it structure while keeping it soft and tender.

Cocoa Powder: The secret to deep, chocolatey richness. Use a good-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor.

Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture, making every bite perfectly balanced.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda: The dynamic duo that ensures a light, fluffy texture.

Eggs: Help bind everything together and add richness to the cake.

Milk: Adds moisture and keeps the cake soft.

Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake extra moist and tender.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.

Boiling Water: A game-changer! It intensifies the chocolate flavor and ensures a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your oven to the right temperature. This ensures even baking and gives your cake a perfectly risen texture.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Mixing these first helps distribute everything evenly.

Add Wet Ingredients: Crack in the eggs, pour in the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Incorporate Boiling Water: Slowly add the hot water to the batter. The mixture will be thin, but don’t worry—that’s what makes the cake so moist and rich.

Prepare Your Baking Pan: Grease and flour your cake pans to prevent sticking.

Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool Completely: Let the cakes cool in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack. This step helps keep them from breaking.

Serve and Enjoy: Slice, serve, and enjoy every rich, chocolatey bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8

Calories per serving: 350

(Note: These are approximate values and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Easy Chocolate Cake

This cake pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a hot-and-cold contrast
A drizzle of warm chocolate ganache for extra indulgence
Fresh berries for a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness
Whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a classic finish
A glass of cold milk because, well, chocolate cake and milk are best friends

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Use quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and airy.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid a melty mess.
Enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate taste.
For extra moisture, replace half the milk with buttermilk or sour cream.
Make it ahead! This cake stays moist for days, so you can bake it in advance.
Store leftovers properly by wrapping in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Faq’s

Can I use butter instead of oil? Yes, but oil keeps the cake extra moist. If you prefer butter, melt it before adding it to the batter.

Why is my cake dry? Overbaking can dry out the cake. Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.

Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

Can I substitute the eggs? You can use applesauce, mashed banana, or a flax egg as an alternative.

Why is my batter so thin? That’s normal! The hot water makes the batter thin, which results in a moist, tender cake.

Can I freeze this cake? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months.

What’s the best frosting for this cake? Chocolate buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even just whipped cream work beautifully.

Can I make cupcakes with this recipe? Yes! Just adjust the baking time to about 18-20 minutes.

Do I have to use boiling water? Yes! It helps dissolve the cocoa powder and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Can I make this cake dairy-free? Yes! Use almond or oat milk and a dairy-free butter substitute.

Conclusion

This Easy Chocolate Cake is proof that the best things in life don’t have to be complicated. It’s rich, moist, and full of deep chocolate flavor, yet simple enough for anyone to make. Whether you enjoy it plain, frosted, or with your favorite toppings, one thing’s for sure—you’ll be making this again and again. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and let’s bake some happiness!

Easy Chocolate Cake

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Author: Grace Sullivan
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this Easy Chocolate Cake, a moist and rich dessert that comes together effortlessly in one bowl. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch (20cm) round baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Add the egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined; it will be thin.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.
- Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled completely, place it on a serving plate.
- Pour the ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Let the ganache set before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a deeper chocolate flavor, substitute boiling water with hot coffee.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.