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Easy chocolate cake and slices on parchment paper.
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4.73 from 33 votes

Easy Chocolate Cake Recipe

Whip up this chocolate lover's dream effortlessly with our Easy Chocolate Cake. This square cake has a moist, rich base, and heavenly cocoa frosting that comes alive with just a bowl and a square pan!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Cakes & Cheesecakes, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 9
Calories: 756kcal
Author: Andrea

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 c. granulated sugar
  • 1/2 c. brown sugar
  • 1/4 c. vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 3/4 c. buttermilk
  • 3/4 c. warm water + ½ tsp. espresso powder espresso is optional
  • 1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
  • 3/4 tsp. baking powder
  • 3/4 tsp. coarse kosher sea salt not fine
  • 3/4 c. quality unsweetened cocoa powder*

For the Frosting:

  • 1/2 c. 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 3/4 c. powdered sugar
  • 1/4 c. unsweetened natural dutch process or cocoa rouge cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp. milk
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 2 pinches coarse sea salt

For the Garnish:

  • 1/4 c. chocolate curls chocolate jimmies or crunchy dark chocolate pearls

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius). Line a 9x9-inch square pan with parchment paper; set aside.
  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, or a large bowl with a hand mixer, beat the sugars and oil for 30 seconds. Add the vanilla and eggs, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the vanilla, buttermilk, and hot water. Mix until combined.
  • Add the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Sift cocoa powder over the top. Whisk until combined, about 30 seconds.
  • Pour into the prepared pan. Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top springs back when touched (or a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean).
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
  • For the chocolate frosting: In the bowl of a stand mixer, or a large mixing bowl with a handheld mixer, beat the butter until light and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  • Carefully add in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla, and salt; beat until fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  • Spread over the cooled cake. Top with desired garnishes.

Notes

STORE the Easy Chocolate Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring it retains moisture and flavor. To FREEZE, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store it in your freezer for up to 2 months.
THAW at room temperature before serving. While this cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat slices briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore a bit of warmth and softness.

Nutrition

Calories: 756kcal | Carbohydrates: 135g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 562mg | Potassium: 556mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 88g | Vitamin A: 420IU | Calcium: 113mg | Iron: 6mg