Nothing satisfies a chocolate craving quite like a rich, decadent chocolate cake. This easy, from-scratch recipe creates a cake that’s incredibly moist, tender, and packed with deep cocoa flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or simply treating yourself, this chocolate cake is a timeless showstopper.
💕 Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cake
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✅ Rich and fudgy with deep chocolate flavor
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✅ Incredibly moist thanks to buttermilk and oil
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✅ Simple ingredients, no mixer required
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✅ Light, fluffy whipped cream frosting
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✅ Perfect for parties, potlucks, or any sweet craving
🍫 Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
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2½ cups all-purpose flour
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2½ cups granulated sugar
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1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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2 tsp baking powder
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1½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
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½ cup vegetable oil
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2 large eggs
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup boiling water
For the Whipped Cream Frosting:
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
✅ Step 1: Prep the Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
✅ Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
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Flour
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Sugar
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Cocoa powder
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Baking powder
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Baking soda
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Salt
This ensures even distribution and a smoother batter.
✅ Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk:
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Buttermilk
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Vegetable oil
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Eggs
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Vanilla extract
Whisk until smooth and fully blended.
✅ Step 4: Mix the Batter
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined—don’t overmix.
Carefully pour in the boiling water, stirring slowly. The batter will become thin, which is key to a moist cake.
✅ Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
✅ Step 6: Make the Frosting
In a chilled bowl, beat together:
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Heavy cream
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Powdered sugar
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Vanilla extract
Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form. This makes a fluffy, light frosting that balances the richness of the cake.
✅ Step 7: Assemble and Decorate
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer, then frost the top and sides.
Optional: Dust with cocoa powder, chocolate curls, or fresh berries for an elegant finish.
📊 Nutrition & Serving Info
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
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Total Time: ~55 minutes
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Servings: 12 slices
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Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
