Smith Island Cake - Chocolate Recipe
Maryland's official state dessert. 9 layer cake.
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Ingredients
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Cake Layers
Chocolate Frosting
Method
Cake Layers Preparation
- 1
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour nine 9-inch round cake pans.
- 2
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of cocoa powder, 1 tsp of baking powder, 1 tsp of baking soda, and 1 tsp of salt.
- 3
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, 1 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 tsp of vanilla extract until well combined.
- 4
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients while mixing on medium speed. Mix until combined.
- 5
Add Boiling Water
Carefully stir in 1 cup of boiling water to the batter until smooth. The batter will be thin.
- 6
Bake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- 7
Cool Layers
Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting Preparation
- 8
Make the Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 3 cups of cocoa powder and 6 cups of powdered sugar, alternating with 3/4 cup of whole milk. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Add 2 tsp of vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- 9
Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then add the next layer of cake. Repeat this process until all layers are stacked.
- 10
Frost the Sides
Use the remaining frosting to frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out as desired.
- 11
Serve
Slice the Smith Island Cake into wedges and serve. Enjoy your delicious Maryland state dessert!
