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Chocolate Layer Cake

This heavenly Chocolate Layer Cake is rich, moist, and perfectly layered with luscious frosting, making it a delightful treat for celebrations or everyday indulgence.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ cup heavy cream

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
  • Add in eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  • Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin.
  • Pour the batter equally into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, flip them out onto wire racks and let them cool completely.

Frosting

  • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Pour in the vanilla and heavy cream, then mix until fluffy.

Assembly

  • Once your cakes are cool, place one layer on a cake stand or plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then gently place the second layer on top.
  • Frost the top and sides of the cake.
  • Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

Make it Ahead: This cake stays fresh for days. Store it in an airtight container. Flavor It Up: Add a splash of espresso for deeper chocolate flavor. Decorate with a handful of chocolate chips or sprinkles.
Keyword Baking, Cake, Chocolate, Chocolate Layer Cake, dessert