Chocolate cake is a classic dessert loved by many. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just craving something sweet, this easy chocolate cake recipe is perfect. You’ll love how simple it is to make, and the results are so delicious. If you enjoy chocolate desserts, you might also like trying out some delightful chocolate cupcakes. You can find more about them in this easy chocolate cupcake recipe.

Why Make This Recipe
This easy chocolate cake is not only quick to prepare, but it also requires simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture make it a go-to choice for all occasions. Plus, this cake is versatile; you can enjoy it plain or dressed up with your favorite frosting.
How to Make Easy Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups 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
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract; mix on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in boiling water (the batter will be thin).
- Pour evenly into prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes in pans, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, use your favorite chocolate frosting recipe, or mix together melted chocolate, butter, and powdered sugar until creamy. Frost the cooled cake.
How to Serve Easy Chocolate Cake
You can serve the cake as is or with a generous layer of frosting. Some people love adding fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream. Serving it warm is also a delightful option!
How to Store Easy Chocolate Cake
To keep your chocolate cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze slices of the cake for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Easy Chocolate Cake
- Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing.
- If you want a deeper chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder.
- Always allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Variation
You can transform this chocolate cake into a marble cake by swirling in some vanilla batter before baking. Alternatively, adding a bit of coffee can enhance the chocolate flavor further.
FAQs
1. Can I use melted butter instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, you can substitute melted butter for vegetable oil. This may change the flavor slightly, adding a richer taste.
2. What can I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
Ensure your oven temperature is accurate and avoid opening the oven door too early. Sometimes, underbaking can also cause the cake to sink.
3. How long can I keep the cake in the freezer?
You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Easy Chocolate Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic easy chocolate cake recipe that is quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract; mix on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in boiling water (the batter will be thin).
- Pour evenly into prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes in pans, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost with your favorite chocolate frosting or a mixture of melted chocolate, butter, and powdered sugar until creamy.
Notes
Serve as is or with a generous layer of frosting. Fresh berries or a scoop of ice cream make great additions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg