A Crowd-Pleasing Classic: The Best Chocolate Cake

Introduction

This is a tried-and-true recipe that has been a family favorite for years. It’s a rich, moist chocolate cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a weeknight dessert, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Add Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will become thin.
6. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto wire racks to cool completely.

Frosting:

Your favorite frosting recipe will work well with this cake. Here’s a simple buttercream frosting recipe:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Cream Butter: In a large bowl, cream the butter until smooth.
2. Add Sugar Gradually: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until light and fluffy.
3. Add Milk and Vanilla: Beat in the milk and vanilla extract.
4. Frost Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost them with your favorite frosting.

Tips:

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
• Cool Completely: Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Enjoy this classic chocolate cake with your loved ones!