Jun 09 2026

Ad Astra Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves12

Free State, KS

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Ingredients

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Base

Decoration

Method

Base Preparation

  1. 1

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

  3. 3

    Combine Wet Ingredients

    In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

  4. 4

    Combine Mixtures

    Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

  5. 5

    Bake the Base

    Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Frosting Preparation

  1. 6

    Beat the Butter

    In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes.

  2. 7

    Add Sugar and Cocoa

    Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder to the butter, mixing on low speed until combined.

  3. 8

    Add Cream and Vanilla

    Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Assembly and Decoration

  1. 9

    Frost the Cake

    Once the base has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top using a spatula.

  2. 10

    Decorate

    Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the frosting, and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

  3. 11

    Serve

    Cut into squares and serve at room temperature or chilled.

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