Chocolate Cake Made From Scratch

Name: Chocolate Cake Made From Scratch
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water

Highlighted under: Daily Kitchen

I’ve always been a fan of rich, decadent chocolate cakes, and crafting one from scratch has become my favorite way to celebrate special occasions. There’s something incredibly rewarding about using simple ingredients to create a dessert that feels utterly luxurious. This recipe allows me to control the quality of each component while achieving a wonderfully moist and flavorful cake that satisfies every chocolate craving. Whether it’s for a birthday, an anniversary, or just an indulgent treat, this homemade chocolate cake never fails to impress.

Created by

Elara Kensington

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:49:35.695Z

During my first attempt at baking a chocolate cake from scratch, I was surprised at how simple it turned out to be. I started with high-quality cocoa powder, which really made a difference in flavor. The key is to mix the ingredients just enough to combine; over-mixing can result in a dense texture that isn't ideal.

One specific tip I learned was to let the cakes cool completely before frosting. This avoids any melting and ensures the layers hold up beautifully. I often use a combination of dark chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate in my ganache, which adds a depth of flavor that’s truly irresistible!

Why You Will 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

The Role of Ingredients

Understanding the role of each ingredient is vital to achieving the perfect chocolate cake. All-purpose flour provides structure, while cocoa powder contributes both flavor and color. The combination of baking powder and baking soda not only helps the cake rise but also ensures a light texture. Be sure to use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer taste, as the flavor of the chocolate is paramount in this dessert.

The use of whole milk in this recipe adds moisture and richness. Milk's fat content helps create a tender crumb, while eggs provide binding and stability. The inclusion of vegetable oil, a key ingredient, results in a cake that remains moist for days. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half of the vegetable oil with applesauce, which will still keep the cake moist while reducing the overall fat content.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking, it’s essential to accurately measure your ingredients for the best results. I recommend using a kitchen scale for flour and cocoa powder, especially since even a slight over-measure can lead to a dense cake. Mixing the batter on medium speed for the recommended time ensures all ingredients are well combined, creating a uniform texture. Avoid over-mixing after adding boiling water; just stir until incorporated to maintain that light and airy crumb.

Pay attention to your oven temperature by using an oven thermometer if you're unsure. Every oven can behave differently, which is why the recommended baking time can vary. Start checking your cake at the 30-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached when the cake is done. Letting the cakes cool before frosting prevents the frosting from sliding off, leading to a beautifully presented dessert.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your chocolate cake journey:

Chocolate Cake Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Once you have gathered your ingredients, you're ready to begin!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a perfect chocolate cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until blended.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.

Incorporate Boiling Water

Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin) and mix until combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.

Frost and Serve

Once cooled, frost the cake with your favorite chocolate frosting and enjoy!

Your delicious chocolate cake is now ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding espresso powder to the batter. It enhances the chocolate taste without making the cake taste like coffee.

Serving Suggestions

Once your cake is beautifully frosted, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the chocolate flavor. This contrast can elevate the taste experience significantly. You might also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and luxury. Not only does it complement the rich chocolate taste, but the coldness also balances the cake's warmth if served fresh.

For gatherings, try decorating the top with fresh berries or chocolate shavings for a touch of sophistication. This not only beautifies the cake but adds a layer of flavor that is both refreshing and decadent. Additionally, a chocolate ganache glaze can be poured over the top for a truly indulgent look and taste.

Storing and Freezing Cake

To store leftover cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing slices individually. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to thaw slices in the refrigerator to maintain their texture.

If you plan to frost your cake after freezing, it’s best to do so once it's fully thawed. Frosting a cold cake can sometimes lead to the frosting becoming too firm and difficult to spread. Allow the cake to come to room temperature for about an hour before frosting for the easiest application and the best visual appeal when serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate them until you're ready to frost and serve.

→ What’s the best frosting for this cake?

A classic chocolate buttercream or a rich ganache works wonderfully. For something different, try a cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers. Just ensure they are cooled completely, wrap them well, and they can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What if I don’t have boiling water?

If boiling water is not available, you can substitute it with hot coffee, which will enhance the chocolate flavor.