Chocolate Cake With Buttercream

Name: Chocolate Cake With Buttercream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 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; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Sugar Coated

I love baking treats that bring joy, and this chocolate cake with buttercream is my go-to for any occasion. The rich, decadent chocolate flavor combines beautifully with the fluffy, buttery frosting, creating a dessert that's simply irresistible. I often bake this cake for birthdays or special gatherings, and it never fails to impress. With just the right balance of sweetness and a moist crumb, this recipe is a must-try for any chocolate lover. Let's get started on making a delightful cake that will leave everyone asking for more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:35:36.071Z

When I first attempted this chocolate cake, I wanted something that was both indulgent and approachable. The secret to its depth of flavor lies in high-quality cocoa powder and a touch of coffee, which accentuates the chocolate beautifully. I’ve found that allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting is crucial to achieving the perfect buttercream consistency. Trust me; it makes a world of difference!

One of my favorite tips is to use room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and butter, when making the batter. This ensures a smooth blend, resulting in a light and airy cake. Each time I make this chocolate cake with buttercream, I’m reminded of how a few simple ingredients can create such a spectacular dessert that truly brings people together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Baking Tips for Success

When baking this chocolate cake, precise measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale for the flour and sugar if available, as the weight can significantly impact texture. Sifting the cocoa powder and flour before adding them to the mixing bowl not only removes lumps but also incorporates air, leading to a lighter crumb. Additionally, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; outdated leavening agents can result in a dense cake.

Another technique to ensure a moist cake is to not overmix the batter once the wet ingredients are added. Mix just until combined; this preserves the cake's fluffiness. Keep an eye on the baking time—timing can vary slightly based on your oven or the pans used. Look for the cakes to pull away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Exploring Variations

Feel free to get creative with this chocolate cake recipe by adding different flavor elements. For a refreshing twist, consider adding a teaspoon of orange or mint extract to the batter, or folding in chocolate chips before baking for an even more indulgent treat. If you’re a fan of nuts, finely chopped walnuts or pecans can create a nice texture contrast in the cake layers.

To make this recipe more suited for dietary preferences, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it includes xanthan gum for structure. Additionally, substituting the granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a similar sweetener can help achieve a lower glycemic index while still maintaining the flavor a chocolate cake should have.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your cake is frosted, it can be displayed at room temperature for a day or two, but for longer freshness, store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or a cake dome to prevent drying out. The cake can also be frozen for up to three months. Simply wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn, thawing it overnight in the fridge before decorating.

For serving, consider pairing the chocolate cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast in flavors. Adding fresh berries can also enhance the presentation and add a tart balance to the rich chocolate and buttercream. Experimenting with different toppings like chocolate shavings or flaked sea salt can elevate your cake to a more gourmet level.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious chocolate cake with buttercream:

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
2 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 Buttercream

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to preheat your oven and prepare your cake pans before you start mixing the batter!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chocolate cake with buttercream:

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, mixing until smooth. Add the heavy cream a little at a time, continuing to beat until the desired consistency is reached.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of buttercream on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream. Decorate as desired.

Slice and serve this delicious chocolate cake to enjoy with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add chocolate shavings or berries on top of the frosted cake. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a smoother buttercream consistency.

Understanding Ingredients

Each ingredient in this cake plays a significant role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture. Unsweetened cocoa powder provides the essential chocolate flavor, while the granulated sugar not only sweetens but also aids in achieving a moist texture. The combination of baking powder and baking soda creates the perfect lift, resulting in a cake that’s light yet rich.

The eggs act as a binding agent, giving structure and stability to the cake, while the vegetable oil helps to keep it moist. Using whole milk adds richness; if you're in need of a substitute, buttermilk can add a delightful tang while maintaining moisture. Incorporating orange zest into the batter can also enhance the chocolate flavor in a surprisingly harmonious way.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your cake is sinking in the middle, it may be due to a few factors—either underbaking or not allowing the cakes to cool in the pan for long enough. Always ensure the cakes are fully baked before removing them from the oven; if the toothpick test fails, give them a few more minutes. Cooling in the pan for around 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack is crucial for maintaining their shape.

Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough texture, so remember to mix until just combined. If your buttercream is too thin, add more powdered sugar incrementally to thicken it. Alternatively, if too thick, a splash more of heavy cream can help reach the desired consistency. These adjustments can help ensure that your cake and frosting come out perfectly every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How can I make this cake more chocolatey?

Try adding chocolate chips or using dark cocoa powder for a richer flavor.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cakes in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.