Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake

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Rich, moist, and unapologetically decadent, this Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake is every chocolate lover’s dream come true. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself on a Tuesday night, this cake delivers deep cocoa flavor and luscious texture without the fuss. It combines pantry staples and a straightforward method, making it perfect for beginner bakers or anyone craving a reliably delightful dessert.

Each bite is layered with silky chocolate frosting and perfectly tender crumb, creating that melt-in-your-mouth moment we all crave. The result is a bakery-quality cake made in your home kitchen—no mixers, no fancy techniques, just honest, indulgent comfort.

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Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake

This cake isn’t just about chocolate, it’s about delivering a failproof recipe that impresses every single time. It uses oil instead of butter for extra moisture, hot coffee to intensify the chocolate notes, and a smooth, glossy frosting that glides on effortlessly. Even better? It stays moist for days—if it lasts that long.

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What Kind of Cocoa Powder Should I Use?

For the deepest, most luxurious flavor, go for unsweetened natural cocoa powder or Dutch-process cocoa. Dutch-process gives a richer color and a mellow, less acidic taste, while natural cocoa offers a brighter flavor. Either works beautifully in this cake, depending on your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, try blending both.

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Ingredients for the Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake

This cake keeps things simple yet effective. Here’s what makes it work so beautifully:

All-Purpose Flour – The base structure of the cake. It balances the wet ingredients and gives the crumb that ideal bite.

Granulated Sugar – For sweetness, of course, but it also helps retain moisture.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Rich chocolate flavor depends entirely on a high-quality cocoa powder.

Baking Powder & Baking Soda – The leavening duo ensures a lofty rise and soft crumb.

Salt – Just a pinch enhances the chocolate flavor.

Eggs – Add structure and richness.

Whole Milk – Moisture and fat to soften the texture.

Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake ultra-moist, even after chilling.

Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.

Hot Coffee – Deepens the chocolate taste without making the cake taste like coffee.

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How To Make the Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Whisk in the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until fully combined. The batter will be thick.

Step 4: Pour in Hot Coffee

Gradually stir in the hot coffee. Your batter will become thin—that’s perfect for a moist cake.

Step 5: Bake

Divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks.

Step 6: Frost

Once completely cool, frost with your favorite chocolate frosting or ganache. Layer generously between the cakes and smooth over the top and sides.

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How to Serve and Store Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake

This recipe generously serves 10 to 12 people, making it perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or even holiday tables.

To serve, slice with a sharp knife and wipe clean between cuts for a neat presentation. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

To store, keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months.

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What to Serve With Chocolate Cake?

Fresh Berries

The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the richness beautifully.

Whipped Cream

Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a dreamy contrast to the dense cake.

Ice Cream

Vanilla, coffee, or caramel ice cream all complement the deep chocolate flavor.

Salted Caramel Sauce

A drizzle takes it over the top—try it once, and you’ll always want it.

Espresso or Coffee

A classic combo that enhances the chocolatey notes.

Mint Tea

Refreshing and bright, perfect after a rich slice.

Chocolate Shavings

Add extra decadence as a garnish.

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Want More Cake Ideas That Hit the Sweet Spot?

If this chocolate cake swept you off your feet, you’ll want to explore more cake delights:

• Strawberry Cheesecake Bundt Cake for a fruity twist.
• Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake when you want tart and rich together.
• Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for breakfast-dessert fusion dreams.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake if you love cherries with deep cocoa.
• Cream Cheese Flan when you want something velvety smooth.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with Dutch-process cocoa or keep it classic? Did you add a surprise filling?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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