Here’s a rich, classic Layered Chocolate Cake that’s moist, decadent, and made for special occasions (or just serious chocolate cravings). It features fluffy chocolate cake layers with silky chocolate frosting — perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or just showing off your baking skills.
🍫 Classic Layered Chocolate Cake
🎂 Cake Ingredients (Makes two 9-inch layers):
-
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
-
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
-
2 cups granulated sugar
-
1 ½ tsp baking powder
-
1 ½ tsp baking soda
-
1 tsp salt
-
2 large eggs
-
1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
-
1/2 cup vegetable oil
-
2 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 cup hot water (or strong brewed coffee – enhances chocolate flavor)
🍫 Chocolate Frosting Ingredients (Enough to fill and frost the cake):
-
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
-
3 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
-
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
-
½ cup heavy cream (plus more if needed)
-
2 tsp vanilla extract
-
Pinch of salt
🔪 Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep:
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
-
In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
-
In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla together.
4. Combine:
-
Gradually mix the wet into the dry ingredients.
-
Stir in hot water (or coffee) last — batter will be thin, that’s good!
5. Bake:
-
Divide batter evenly between pans.
-
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
Cool in pans 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on wire racks.
🍫 Make the Frosting:
-
Beat butter until creamy and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
-
Sift together powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then slowly add to butter.
-
Mix in vanilla, salt, and cream.
-
Beat for 2–3 minutes until smooth and spreadable. Add more cream if needed for consistency.
🧁 Assemble the Cake:
-
Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
-
Spread a thick layer of frosting over the top.
-
Place second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides.
-
Optional: Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish or decorate with swirls, sprinkles, or ganache drizzle.
❄️ Storage:
-
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
-
Bring to room temperature before serving if chilled.
💡 Optional Add-Ons:
-
Ganache topping for an extra chocolatey finish.
-
Fresh berries or jam between the layers.
-
A layer of chocolate mousse or whipped cream for a twist.
Would you like a gluten-free, eggless, or 3-layer version next?
