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Classic Chocolate Layer Cake

A decadent slice of moist chocolate cake with rich chocolate frosting, showcasing its layers.

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A moist, rich chocolate cake with deep cocoa flavor and homemade chocolate frosting, perfect for birthdays or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • For the Frosting:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
  4. Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin.
  5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
  9. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the milk, beating until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  10. Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

Notes

  • For an even richer chocolate flavor, you can use dark cocoa powder.
  • Ensure your buttermilk is at room temperature for best results.
  • If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

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