One Bowl Chocolate Cake

Craving a rich, indulgent chocolate cake that’s as simple as it is delicious? Look no further than this easy, one-bowl chocolate cake. Perfect for any occasion, this cake features a moist, tender crumb with deep chocolate flavor. Plus, with just one bowl for mixing, clean-up is a breeze!

Ingredients List

Creating a decadent, chocolate cake requires a few key components to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need for this simple and indulgent dessert.

Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups white sugar
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Required Kitchen Tools

Having the right kitchen tools can make this cake-making experience smooth and effortless. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:

1. Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential to combine all your ingredients in one place, minimizing mess.
2. Electric Mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer will make the process faster and easier when beating the ingredients together.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to getting the right texture and flavor for this cake.
4. Baking Pans: You’ll need two 9-inch round baking pans for this recipe, or you can use a 9×13-inch baking pan.
5. Cooling Rack: This ensures your cake cools evenly and prevents sogginess.

Cake Preparation

Making this one-bowl chocolate cake is simple and quick, and the results are absolutely worth it. Let’s break down the steps to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

Mixing the Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until all the dry ingredients are fully incorporated. This is your dry mix that will form the base of the cake.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: To the dry mix, add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes. This will help to create a smooth, uniform batter.
3. Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be quite thin, but don’t worry – this will result in a super moist cake! Mix until everything is combined.

Pouring the Batter into Pans

Once your batter is ready, divide it evenly between your prepared baking pans. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even layer in each pan. This ensures both cakes will bake evenly and rise at the same rate.

Baking the Cake

Now that your batter is ready and evenly poured into the pans, it’s time to get this cake baking. With the right temperature and timing, you’ll have a fluffy, moist chocolate cake in no time.

Baking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Before you begin, make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly right from the start.
2. Bake the Cake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know the cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
3. Cooling the Cake: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to remove from the pans. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the cakes out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents the cakes from becoming soggy and ensures they retain their texture.

Frosting and Serving the Cake

Now that your one-bowl chocolate cake is baked and cooled, it’s time to add the finishing touch—frosting! Whether you prefer a rich chocolate buttercream or a light whipped cream, this cake is versatile enough to complement any frosting. Here are some helpful tips to make your cake look as good as it tastes.

Suggested Frostings and Decorations

• Chocolate Buttercream Frosting: Rich, creamy, and indulgent, chocolate buttercream pairs perfectly with this cake. To make it, combine butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Spread generously between the cake layers and over the top.
• Whipped Cream: For a lighter, less sweet option, top your cake with fresh whipped cream. This pairs beautifully with the deep chocolate flavor of the cake.
• Chocolate Ganache: If you’re a chocolate lover, drizzle a glossy chocolate ganache over the top. It’s simple to make and gives a sophisticated finish to your cake.

Assembling and Decorating

1. Layer the Cake: Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a cake plate or stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top.
2. Add the Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top and continue frosting the top and sides. Use a spatula or cake knife to smooth the frosting for a neat finish.
3. Decorate: Top the cake with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries for an extra touch of decoration.

Serving Tips

• Serve your cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
• For an added treat, pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Storage Instructions

After preparing your one-bowl chocolate cake, you may have some leftovers that need to be stored. Here’s how to keep your cake fresh for as long as possible.

How to Keep the Cake Fresh

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it away from direct sunlight or heat to maintain its freshness. If the cake is frosted, you can also refrigerate it, but make sure it’s tightly covered to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing the Cake

If you want to keep the cake for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the cake layers or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cake can last for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw the cake at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Conclusion

This one-bowl chocolate cake recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. With just a few ingredients and a handful of easy steps, you can create a decadent, moist cake that’s sure to impress at any gathering.

Whether you keep it simple with frosting or add a few personal touches, this cake is as versatile as it is delicious. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a sweet, chocolatey treat that’s sure to be a favorite!