Description

This chocolate cake is my go-to recipe when I want something rich, tender, and indulgent without being overly complicated. Perfect for birthdays, weekend treats, or simply a chocolate craving, it combines the depth of cocoa with a soft, moist crumb. Each bite melts in your mouth, and it pairs beautifully with berries, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream. Even novice bakers can achieve a beautiful cake that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup whole milk, room temperature
2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: 1 tsp espresso powder or ½ cup chocolate chips

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your pan.
Whisk together the dry ingredients: cocoa, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla.
Slowly fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth.
Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Frost or serve as desired.

Notes

For extra moistness, add a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream.
Enhance chocolate flavor with a pinch of espresso powder.
Sift dry ingredients to prevent clumps and ensure a tender crumb.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8–10
Calories: 350
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 65mg