Chocolate cake

Of course! Chocolate cake is a classic and beloved dessert. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for a homemade chocolate cake.

Ingredients:

For the cake:

• 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice)
• 1 cup strong black coffee (or 1 cup boiling water)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the chocolate frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (as needed for consistency)

Instructions:

For the cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, buttermilk, coffee, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is well combined and smooth.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the milk or heavy cream.
3. Mix in the salt and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Add more milk or powdered sugar if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. You can decorate with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries if desired. Enjoy your homemade chocolate cake!