Decadent, tender, and deeply chocolatey—this cake is the perfect dessert for celebrating any special moment. Featuring light, cocoa-packed layers paired with a smooth, rich chocolate frosting, it’s an eye-catching centerpiece that will delight every chocolate fan at the table.

 

Ingredients

For the Cake

• All-Purpose Flour — 2 cups
  Provides structure
• Granulated Sugar — 2 cups
  Sweetens the batter
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder — ¾ cup
  Adds deep chocolate flavor
• Baking Powder — 2 teaspoons
  Helps the cake rise
• Baking Soda — 1½ teaspoons
  Adds extra lift
• Salt — 1 teaspoon
  Enhances overall flavor
• Milk — 1 cup
  Adds moisture
• Vegetable Oil — ½ cup
  Keeps the crumb soft
• Large Eggs — 2
  Adds richness and structure
• Vanilla Extract — 2 teaspoons
  Adds aromatic depth
• Hot Water — 1 cup
  Enhances cocoa flavor

 

For the Frosting

• Unsalted Butter (softened) — 1 cup
  Creamy base
• Powdered Sugar — 3½ cups
  Provides sweetness
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder — ½ cup
  Rich chocolate flavor
• Milk — ½ cup
  Creates smooth consistency
• Vanilla Extract — 2 teaspoons
  Boosts flavor
• Salt — 1 pinch
  Balances sweetness

 

Instructions

Making the Cake

Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 350°F (180°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla until fully blended.

Bring the Batter Together

Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture.
Slowly pour in hot water, stirring until the batter is smooth and thin.

Bake

Evenly divide batter between prepared pans.
Bake for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool

Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes.
Turn out onto wire racks and cool completely.

 

Preparing the Frosting

Cream the Butter

Beat softened butter in a large bowl until light and creamy.

Finish the Frosting

Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla, and salt.
Beat until fluffy and smooth.

 

Assemble the Cake

Layer and Frost

Spread frosting over one cooled cake layer.
Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides.

Set the Cake

Chill in the freezer for 30 minutes before slicing for clean cuts and best texture.

Moist, rich, and wonderfully indulgent, this chocolate cake is ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or anytime you want to serve an impressive homemade dessert.