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Best Chocolate Cake Recipe Ever

Moist and rich chocolate cake made with simple ingredients.
Easy one-bowl method with deep chocolate flavor.
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or everyday dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder
  • 1 cup milk or buttermilk, almond, or coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or canola or melted coconut oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • Chocolate buttercream frosting

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch cake pans.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder.
  • Add milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
  • Slowly add boiling water and mix until fully combined. The batter will be thin.
  • Divide batter evenly between pans.
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Frost with chocolate buttercream to complete this best chocolate cake recipe.

Notes

  • You can replace milk with dairy-free alternatives
  • Works great as cupcakes (bake 18–22 minutes)
  • Pair with berries or ice cream for serving