Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake

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This Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake is every chocolate lover’s dream come true. Incredibly moist, deeply fudgy, and crowned with a rich chocolate ganache, this cake is simplicity and decadence all in one bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a midweek pick-me-up, this chocolate cake will not disappoint.

Made with pantry staples and zero complicated techniques, it delivers bakery-level results in the comfort of your home kitchen. The texture is soft yet sturdy, holding together beautifully when sliced, and the chocolate flavor is intense without being overpowering. You won’t believe how quickly it comes together and how little effort it takes to impress a crowd.

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Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake

• No Mixer Required: You can make this cake with just a whisk and a bowl. It’s the perfect bake for beginners.
• Insanely Moist: Thanks to ingredients like oil and buttermilk, the crumb stays tender for days.
• Fudgy Finish: A glossy ganache layer adds richness and takes the cake from great to unforgettable.
• Versatile: It works just as well for a birthday party as it does for a cozy Sunday dessert.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for up to a month without sacrificing quality.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the baking, let’s talk prep. This cake is delightfully easy, but having the right tools makes it even smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• Mixing Bowls: Use one large and one medium bowl for dry and wet ingredients. Glass or stainless steel are ideal.
• Whisk & Spatula: A balloon whisk helps incorporate air for a fluffy texture, while a spatula ensures every bit of batter is used.
• 8-inch or 9-inch Cake Pans: Metal pans with straight sides give the most even bake.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cake removal hassle-free.
• Cooling Rack: Essential for avoiding soggy bottoms and preserving texture.
• Small Saucepan (for Ganache): Helps you melt chocolate evenly without scorching.

Having these ready means you can enjoy the process without interruption. Trust me, it’s worth the little bit of setup.

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Ingredients for the Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake

Each ingredient has a role in creating the cake’s deep flavor and tender texture:

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base structure while keeping the crumb light.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and locks in moisture.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds deep chocolate richness.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: The dynamic duo for a good rise and airy crumb.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor, balancing sweetness.
• Buttermilk: Provides tang and extra moisture.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist longer than butter.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and give structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• Hot Water or Coffee: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and helps dissolve cocoa.
• Dark Chocolate & Heavy Cream (for Ganache): Make the shiny, rich topping that elevates the whole experience.

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How To Make the Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch or 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add this mixture into the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Add Hot Liquid

Slowly pour in the hot water or coffee while whisking. The batter will be thin, but this ensures a moist cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Ganache

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until glossy and smooth. Let cool slightly before spreading.

Step 7: Assemble and Frost

Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of ganache, then add the second cake layer. Pour the remaining ganache on top and gently spread to the edges.

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How to Serve and Store This Chocolate Cake

Serving:

Serve this cake at room temperature to ensure the ganache is soft and glossy. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For added flair, sprinkle some sea salt or chocolate curls on top.

Storing:

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa instead of natural?

Yes, but keep in mind Dutch-processed cocoa is less acidic and may slightly alter the rise. For best results, stick with unsweetened natural cocoa.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No problem! Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. It works as a great substitute.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), it’s done. Overbaking will dry it out.

Can I make cupcakes with this batter?

Absolutely! Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake for 18–22 minutes at 350°F.

Is coffee necessary in the batter?

Not at all! Coffee simply enhances the chocolate flavor. You won’t taste it. But hot water works just fine too.

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Want More Cake Ideas?

If you loved this Ultimate Easy Chocolate Cake, here are some other sweet creations to explore:

• Try the Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for a swirl of spiced indulgence.
• Check out Bonnie’s Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake if you’re craving something rich and layered.
• Explore the Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for a fruity shortcut dessert.
• Our Hillbilly Pie is a nostalgic treat packed with flavor.
• Or dive into the Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake for a retro twist with bold berry flavor.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try coffee in the batter or stick with hot water? Any add-ins or personal touches?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Got questions? Let’s help each other bake better, one slice at a time.

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