The BEST Chocolate Cake Recipe

A soft, fluffy, and moist chocolate cake layered with silky chocolate frosting. Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or simply treating yourself.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 cups sugar

• ½ cup cocoa powder

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 eggs

• ½ cup butter, softened

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup black coffee (cooled)

• ½ cup vegetable oil

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1 cup chocolate chips (melted)

‍ Instructions

For the Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.

4. Pour in milk, black coffee, and oil. Mix until smooth.

5. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet mixture on low speed until fully combined.

6. Divide batter evenly between cake pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.

For the Frosting:

1. Beat butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy.

2. Add heavy whipping cream and beat for 5 minutes until fluffy.

3. Melt chocolate chips and blend into frosting until smooth.

To Assemble:

• Place one cake layer on a stand, spread frosting on top.

• Add the second layer, cover top & sides with frosting.

• Decorate with sprinkles, chocolate curls, or fresh berries.

⭐ Tips & Variations

• Swap black coffee with hot water if you prefer less coffee flavor.

• Add a layer of chocolate ganache between cakes for extra richness.

• For a festive touch, top with crushed cookies, nuts, or caramel drizzle.

• Store in an airtight container at room temp (2–3 days) or refrigerate up to 5 days.