The Best Chocolate Cake Recipe

Introduction

In this tutorial, we'll walk you through the process of making the best chocolate cake, as presented by Preppy Kitchen. This recipe yields a moist and soft cake topped with a decadent chocolate buttercream frosting, making it perfect for birthdays or any chocolate lover's celebration. Follow these steps to create a delicious chocolate cake that is easy to make and sure to impress!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start baking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 and ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pans

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
  • Flour
  • Sugar
  • Cocoa powder
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
• Whisk them together until well blended.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the following wet ingredients:
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Vegetable oil
  • Vanilla extract
• Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

• Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients.
• Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Boiling Water

• Carefully stir in the boiling water to the cake batter. This will make the batter thin but ensures a moist cake.
• Mix until well combined.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

• Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
• Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, you can prepare the frosting. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients for Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 and ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions for Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, then beat on high for about 3 minutes until fluffy and smooth.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

• Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate.
• Spread a layer of chocolate buttercream on top.
• Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
• Decorate as desired (e.g., chocolate shavings, sprinkles).

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just made a delicious chocolate cake with rich chocolate buttercream frosting. This cake is perfect for celebrations or simply as a treat for yourself. Remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Enjoy your baking, and don't hesitate to experiment with different decorations or flavors!