Moist Chocolate Cake With Cocoa Powder

Name: Moist Chocolate Cake With Cocoa Powder
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¼ cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Oven Favorites

I absolutely love baking, and nothing brings me more joy than creating a rich, moist chocolate cake. This recipe, using cocoa powder, is easy to follow and yields a cake that's incredibly fluffy and decadent. I've tried countless chocolate cake recipes, but this one stands out for its simplicity and delightful flavor. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a sweet treat at home, this cake never fails to impress. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:19:35.255Z

As I ventured into cake baking, the quest for the perfect chocolate cake became my mission. After experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, I discovered that cocoa powder gives not just a bold chocolate flavor but also a wonderfully moist texture. The secret here is to ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature—this little tip helps the batter come together seamlessly.

My first attempt was met with happy faces and empty plates, so I knew I had struck gold! What I love most about this cake is how versatile it is; you can dress it up for an occasion or enjoy it simply with a cup of coffee. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for any chocolate craving!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Understanding the Ingredients

In this chocolate cake recipe, the combination of all-purpose flour and unsweetened cocoa powder is crucial for achieving that desired light and airy texture. The flour provides structure, while the cocoa powder not only contributes to the rich chocolate flavor but also helps in maintaining moisture. I recommend using a high-quality cocoa powder for the best results—this will truly elevate your cake’s taste.

Don’t overlook the role of boiling water in this recipe. Adding boiling water to the batter helps to bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing its flavor and ensuring that your cake is exceptionally moist. If you prefer, you can replace part of the boiling water with hot coffee to intensify the chocolate flavor, but be cautious not to make it too watery.

Frosting Techniques

For the frosting, start with softened butter to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. It's best to leave the butter at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start. If you're short on time, microwave it in short bursts, about 5 seconds at a time, checking for softness. A mixer works best; beat the butter until it’s pale and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

When mixing in the powdered sugar and cocoa, add them gradually to avoid a sugar cloud in your kitchen! If the frosting becomes too stiff, add a tablespoon of milk to loosen it up. Conversely, if it’s too runny, a dusting of powdered sugar can help you achieve the desired spreading consistency.

Storage and Serving Tips

Once your cake is frosted, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing un-frosted cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and frost before serving.

This chocolate cake is incredibly versatile. For a flavor twist, try adding a layer of orange marmalade between the cake layers for added zest. You could also sprinkle some coarse sea salt over the frosting for a delightful sweet-salty combination. Serve with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that guests will adore.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious cake:

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your cake:

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water carefully.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans.

Frost the Cake

In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with milk, until smooth and fluffy. Spread the frosting evenly on the cooled cake.

Enjoy your cake with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of espresso to the batter or using a chocolate ganache instead of frosting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake comes out with a dome shape, it's likely overmixed or baked at too high a temperature. Be sure to mix until just combined, and keep an eye on your oven. An oven thermometer can help ensure that the temperature is accurate, preventing over-baking.

On the other hand, if your cake is too dense, check your leavening agents. Baking powder and baking soda should be fresh and active; if they’re past their expiration date, they won't rise the cake properly, resulting in a heavy texture. Remember, storing them in a cool, dry place always helps maintain their effectiveness.

Make-Ahead Options

For those busy days when you crave chocolate cake, consider making the batter ahead of time. You can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure to allow it to reach room temperature before pouring it into the pans, as this will help the cake rise evenly during baking.

Additionally, the frosting can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just re-whip it shortly before using to restore its creamy texture. Planning ahead like this means you can enjoy baking without the time crunch when you hit that sweet craving.

Serving Suggestions

This moist chocolate cake is versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of toppings. For an extra touch, consider drizzling warm chocolate ganache over the top or serving it with a scoop of homemade whipped cream. Fresh berries can also enhance the presentation and add a burst of tartness that balances the sweetness.

If you want to impress your guests further, you can transform the cake into a layered spectacle by slicing each layer horizontally and adding fillings such as raspberry jam or cream cheese frosting. Not only does it look stunning, but it also elevates the flavor profile, making it a show-stopping dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

It's best to stick with all-purpose flour for the best texture, but you can experiment with gluten-free flour if needed.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

→ What can I add to the frosting for more flavor?

You can add a pinch of salt, a flavored extract, or even some zesty orange or mint to enhance the frosting.