Ingredients
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
Chocolate Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preparing the Cake
-
Preheat Oven
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan
-
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt
- Whisk until well blended
-
Add Wet Ingredients
- Create a well in the center of dry ingredients
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla
- Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes
-
Final Batter Preparation
- Slowly stir in hot water
- Batter will be thin - this is normal
- Pour into prepared baking pan
-
Baking
- Bake for 35-40 minutes
- Test with a toothpick - it should come out clean
- Remove from oven and let cool completely
Preparing Frosting
- Cream softened butter
- Add cocoa powder and powdered sugar alternately with milk
- Beat until smooth and creamy
- Stir in vanilla extract
Frosting the Cake
- Ensure cake is completely cool
- Spread frosting evenly over the top
- Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Protein: 5g
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, add 1/2 cup sour cream to batter
- Use coffee instead of hot water for deeper chocolate flavor
- Can be made as cupcakes - bake 18-20 minutes
- Refrigerate to keep fresh for 3-4 days
Storage
- Room Temperature: 3-4 days in airtight container
- Refrigerator: 1 week
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (unfrosted)
Allergen Information
⚠️ Contains:
- Wheat
- Milk
- Eggs
Recipe Notes
- Total Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Serves: 12
Pro Tip: Allow cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting!
About the Recipe
This chocolate cake recipe has been a family favorite for generations, offering a perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and moist texture. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
🍰 Enjoy your delicious homemade chocolate cake! 🍫