Homemade chocolate cake

This homemade chocolate cake features a rich, moist texture with a deep cocoa flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. It's easy to prepare by creaming butter and sugar, then combining wet and dry ingredients before baking.

01 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 cup self-raising flour
1/3 cup dry cocoa powder
1/2 cup milk (1% fat)
Homemade chocolate cake

Who can resist the allure of a perfectly baked chocolate cake? This homemade chocolate cake recipe is easy to follow and delivers a delectable treat that's moist, rich, and bursting with chocolatey goodness. Whether it's for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress everyone.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour an 8-inch round or a 9x9 inch square cake pan. Alternatively, line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and cocoa powder to remove any lumps. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
4. Add the Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry flour and cocoa powder mixture to the creamed butter, sugar, and eggs. Mix on low speed until just combined.
- Pour in the milk and mix until smooth. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be well combined but not overly beaten.
6. Transfer Batter to the Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake the Cake:
- Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool the Cake:
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Then, transfer the cake to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.

Congratulations, you've made a delicious homemade chocolate cake! Serve it as-is or with your favorite frosting or toppings. This cake is perfect for celebrations or simply as a comforting dessert to share with loved ones. Enjoy the rich, chocolatey flavor and the satisfaction of baking a cake from scratch.

Homemade chocolate cake FAQ:

What is the baking time for the chocolate cake?

Bake the chocolate cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

How do I know when the cake is done?

To determine if the cake is done, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the batter sticks to the toothpick, continue baking for an additional few minutes, checking again.

Can I substitute self-raising flour with all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for self-raising flour, but you will need to add baking powder. For every cup of all-purpose flour, add 1½ teaspoons of baking powder to mimic the leavening effect.

How should I store the leftover cake?

Store the leftover chocolate cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

What size pan should I use for this recipe?

You can use either an 8-inch round cake pan or a 9x9 inch square cake pan for this recipe. Make sure to greasing and flouring the pan or lining it with parchment paper for easy release.

Tips:

- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to achieve a smooth batter.

- Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy to incorporate air, which helps the cake rise.

- Sift the dry ingredients (flour and cocoa powder) to avoid lumps and ensure even mixing.

- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added, as this can make the cake dense.

- Preheat the oven for at least 15 minutes before baking to ensure it reaches the correct temperature.

- Check the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving to set the texture and flavor.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 380kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 3.80g
Sugar 27g
Fat 18g

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