What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chocolate cake is perfect for any occasion, and it’s easy to make with simple ingredients. You’ll love how moist and rich it turns out, with a flavor that feels like a warm hug.
- It’s quick to prepare, taking just minutes to mix the batter and pop it in the oven.
- The rich chocolate flavor is balanced with a hint of sweetness, making it irresistible for both kids and adults.
- You can easily customize it with frosting, sprinkles, or fresh fruit to make it your own.
Recipe

For chocolate enthusiasts, this homemade chocolate cake is a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a moist texture and deep chocolate flavor, it’s simple to make and certain to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 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
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
- Stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, substitute buttermilk for the whole milk.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Equipment:
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Wire rack
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 12
Nutrition
2 lines intro:
This chocolate cake recipe provides a delicious treat while offering essential nutrients. Below is the detailed nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 30 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade chocolate cake with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries—they add a bright, juicy contrast to the rich flavor. A dollop of whipped cream, whether homemade or store-bought, makes it even more indulgent without overpowering the cake. You can’t go wrong with either option, but why not try both for the ultimate treat?
Fresh Fruit Pairings
When I think about pairing fresh fruit with homemade chocolate cake, my mind immediately goes to berries—their bright, tangy sweetness cuts through the rich cocoa perfectly. Strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are my go-to choices, but I also love the juicy burst of cherries or the tropical twist of mango slices. Sliced bananas add a creamy texture that balances the cake’s density. Sometimes, I’ll arrange the fruit on top or serve it on the side for a pop of color and freshness. It’s a simple yet elegant way to elevate the dessert, making every bite feel a little more special.
Whipped Cream Options
Though chocolate cake is already pretty amazing on its own, adding whipped cream can take it to a whole new level. I love classic vanilla whipped cream—just heavy cream, sugar, and a splash of vanilla—but you can mix it up. Try folding in cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist, or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. For a tangy contrast, swirl in some mascarpone or cream cheese. If you’re feeling fancy, top it with espresso powder or a drizzle of caramel. Homemade is best, but store-bought works in a pinch. Trust me, your cake will thank you!








