Classic Chocolate Cake

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Laibafaisal (@12345sana)

A simple recipe for a classic chocolate cake with optional chocolate frosting and decorations.

Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
35min
Total Time
55min
Classic Chocolate Cake recipe

Ingredients

12 Servings
(1 serving = 1 slice)
  • 2 1/4cups
    all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2cups
    granulated sugar
  • 2tsp
    baking powder
  • 1tsp
    salt
  • 1cup
    unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1cup
    whole milk
  • 2piece
    large eggs
  • 1tsp
    vanilla extract

Optional

  • 1cup
    chocolate chips
  • 1tbsp
    unsalted butter
  • chopped nuts
  • chocolate shavings
  • fresh fruit

How to make Classic Chocolate Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

    Step 1.1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C)
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

    Step 1.1: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt
    Step 1.2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cocoa powder and milk. Stir until smooth.

    Step 1.1: In a large mixing bowl, combine cocoa powder and milk
    Step 1.2: In a large mixing bowl, combine cocoa powder and milk
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in the vanilla extract.

    Step 1.1: Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition
    Step 1.2: Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, whisking until just combined.

    Step 1.1: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, whisking until just combined
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

    Step 1.1: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

    Step 1.1: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
  8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

    Step 1.1: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely
  9. For the optional chocolate frosting, melt chocolate chips with unsalted butter in a double boiler. Spread or pipe onto the cooled cake.

    Step 1.1: For the optional chocolate frosting, melt chocolate chips with unsalted butter in a double boiler
    Step 1.2: For the optional chocolate frosting, melt chocolate chips with unsalted butter in a double boiler
    Step 1.3: For the optional chocolate frosting, melt chocolate chips with unsalted butter in a double boiler
  10. Add your favorite toppings, such as chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit.

    Step 1.1: Add your favorite toppings, such as chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

243.3kcal (12.17%)

Protein

3.6g (7.26%)

Carbs

35.9g (13.06%)

Sugars

17.6g (35.16%)

Healthy Fat

2.5g

Unhealthy Fat

4.4g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

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Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

  2. Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.

  3. Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.

  4. Great tip! Overmixing can be a common mistake when making cakes, and it can lead to a dense and tough final product. To avoid this, it's essential to mix the wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together until just combined. This helps preserve the delicate structure of the batter and ensures a light and fluffy cake.

  5. Here are some signs of overmixing to watch out for:

    • A thick, stiff batter that's difficult to pour
    • A cake that's dense and heavy
    • A cake that's tough or chewy
  6. To avoid overmixing, try the following:

    • Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together
    • Use a rubber spatula to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated
    • Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are just combined
    • Don't overbeat or over-whisk the batter
  7. By following these tips, you'll be on your way to making a light, fluffy, and delicious cake!

FAQS

  1. What is the best way to store leftover classic chocolate cake?

    To store leftover classic chocolate cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

  2. Can I make this classic chocolate cake gluten-free?

    Yes, you can make this classic chocolate cake gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, especially the baking powder, are gluten-free as well.

  3. What are some good substitutions for eggs in this chocolate cake recipe?

    If you're looking for egg substitutes in this classic chocolate cake recipe, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed bananas for each egg. Alternatively, you can use a commercial egg replacer according to the package instructions.

  4. What can I pair with classic chocolate cake for a dessert spread?

    Classic chocolate cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of desserts. Consider serving it alongside vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries for a delightful contrast. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for extra indulgence.

  5. How do I know when my chocolate cake is done baking?

    To check if your classic chocolate cake is done baking, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.

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