Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe

Cake and Frosting Preparation

1. 1

   Step 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and lightly dust with cocoa powder.

2. 2

   Step 2

   Whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.

3. 3

   Step 3

   In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. 4

   Step 4

   Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix on low speed or with a whisk until just combined and no large lumps remain.

5. 5

   Step 5

   Carefully whisk in the boiling water; the batter will be thin, but this yields a moist cake.

6. 6

   Step 6

   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and tap gently to remove air bubbles.

7. 7

   Step 7

   Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

8. 8

   Step 8

   Allow pans to cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack and cool completely before frosting.

9. 9

   Step 9

   For the frosting, beat the butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.

10. 10

    Step 10

    Sift in the cocoa powder, then add powdered sugar gradually, alternating with milk to reach a creamy, spreadable consistency.

11. 11

    Step 11

    Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt; adjust with a little more milk if the frosting is too thick.

12. 12

    Step 12

    Level the cooled cake layers with a knife or cake leveler if domed. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a thick, even layer of frosting on top.

13. 13

    Step 13

    Place the second layer on top and apply a thin coat of frosting around the cake to seal in crumbs (crumb coat). Chill for 15 minutes.

14. 14

    Step 14

    Apply a generous final coat of frosting all over the cake, smoothing the sides and top. Decorate as desired and let the frosting set before slicing.