Description

This homemade chocolate cake is a moist and rich delight perfect for any occasion. Made from scratch with simple pantry ingredients, it features a tender crumb with deep cocoa flavor, making it an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers. The recipe yields two 9-inch round cakes that can be layered and frosted as desired.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
1½ teaspoons baking soda
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes do not stick during baking.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and even without any lumps.
Incorporate Boiling Water: Gradually pour in the boiling water, stirring constantly. The batter will become thin, which is normal and will result in a moist cake.
Pour Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops to ensure an even bake.
Bake the Cakes: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.

Notes

The batter will be thin after adding boiling water, which helps achieve a moist texture—do not be alarmed.
For best results, use fresh baking powder and baking soda.
You can freeze the baked layers for up to 2 months wrapped tightly.
Allow cakes to cool completely to prevent frosting from melting.
Add your favorite frosting such as chocolate ganache or buttercream for enhanced flavor.