Classic Chocolate Cake
A rich, moist, and decadent chocolate cake perfect for any celebration. Made with cocoa powder and buttermilk for a tender crumb and deep chocolate flavor.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot brewed coffee (or hot water)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Add eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the hot coffee (or hot water) to the batter, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. The batter will be thin.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Notes
For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. The hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.