Quick & Delicious Easy Chocolate Cake Recipe

Craving a decadent treat? Dive into the world of easy chocolate cake recipes with me. This indulgent chocolate cake, optionally topped with homemade ganache, is a true winner. Inspired by the classic Hershey’s recipe, I’ve perfected this cake through trial and error, resulting in a moist, rich delight that will leave you craving more.

With just one bowl and a few simple steps, this chocolate cake recipe is a breeze to make. Whether you prefer it gluten-free, dairy-free, or egg-free, this versatile recipe has got you covered (see Optional Variations below). Bite into a slice of this heavenly creation, and you’ll understand why it’s hailed as the best chocolate cake ever. Join me in experiencing the joy of baking and savoring this irresistible chocolate indulgence.

Recipe Overview

Servings: 9
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Cooling: 1 hour
Ready in: 1 hour 50 minutes

Ingredients List

To create this delectable chocolate cake recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (142g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 6 Tbsp (35g) Dutch process cocoa powder, plus more for dusting pan
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or canola oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs

Chocolate Ganache (optional)

• 6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 3/4 cup heavy cream

Necessary Equipment

To ensure the success of this easy chocolate cake recipe, you’ll need the following essential equipment:

Baking Tools

• 9×9 or 8×8-inch baking dish
• Cooling rack
• Serving plate
• Cake carrier for storing (optional)

Mixing Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula (for ganache, if using)
• Small saucepan (for ganache, if using)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Having these tools on hand will make the process of creating this decadent chocolate cake a breeze.

Directions for Easy Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C). Spray a 9 by 9 or 8 by 8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray then dust with cocoa powder. Shake out excess cocoa.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl whisk together flour, sugar, 6 Tbsp cocoa powder, the baking soda, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add buttermilk, oil, vanilla and eggs to the dry ingredients.
4. Mix Batter: Whisk mixture until very well blended (about 1 minute).
5. Pour into Pan: Pour into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake: Bake in preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, about 27 to 35 minutes.
7. Cool: Let cool completely on a wire rack before frosting (if using) and serving.

How to Make Chocolate Ganache (Optional)

Creating a smooth and decadent chocolate ganache can elevate the flavor of the easy chocolate cake. Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare Chocolate: Place finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a medium heat-proof mixing bowl.
2. Heat Cream: Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over stovetop on medium heat until just simmering (do not boil).
3. Combine: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir gently with a rubber spatula until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Cool and Thicken: Let the ganache cool until it reaches a thicker, spreadable consistency, about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
5. Frost Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the thickened ganache over the top. Slice and serve.

(Note: The original article included a buttercream frosting. This has been replaced with the optional ganache per your instructions.)

Assembling the Cake

This recipe creates a lovely single-layer cake. Once the cake has cooled completely on a wire rack:

1. If using the optional Chocolate Ganache, prepare it as directed above.
2. Allow the ganache to cool and thicken for about 30 minutes.
3. Spread the ganache evenly over the top of the cooled cake using a spatula.
4. Slice the cake and serve. If not using ganache, simply slice the cooled cake and enjoy!

(Note: The original assembly instructions for a 2-layer cake have been adjusted for the single-layer cake described in the provided instructions.)

Storing and Freezing Instructions

How to Keep the Cake Fresh
After baking this decadent chocolate cake, you’ll want to ensure it stays fresh and moist. To keep the cake fresh, store it at room temperature on the counter, covered tightly. I recommend using a cake carrier or covering the baking dish well with plastic wrap or foil. This cake can last for several days when stored properly.

Freezing and Thawing Tips
If you want to freeze the cake for later enjoyment, follow these simple steps. Once the cake has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil or place the plastic-wrapped cake in a large ziptop freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month. To thaw the cake, remove it from the freezer and allow it to defrost in the refrigerator or on the counter with the wrapping intact. Once thawed, you can add ganache (if desired) or serve as is. This freezing method allows you to enjoy a slice of this delicious chocolate cake whenever you crave it.

Optional Variations

Gluten-Free Modifications
For those with gluten restrictions, this chocolate cake recipe can easily be adapted to be gluten-free by substituting an equal amount of a quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (that includes xanthan gum) for the all-purpose flour listed in the recipe. The result is a delicious gluten-free chocolate cake that retains all the moistness and decadence of the original.

Vegan Alternatives
To create a vegan version of this chocolate cake, you’ll need replacements for the eggs and buttermilk. Use a flax egg (1 Tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 Tbsp water, let sit 5 minutes) or 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce for each large egg. For the buttermilk, mix 1 cup of unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or soy) with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to curdle. Use this vegan buttermilk in place of the dairy buttermilk. Ensure your cocoa powder and chocolate (for ganache, if using) are dairy-free. Bake time might need slight adjustment. This makes the cake a delightful dairy-free and vegan-friendly treat that everyone can enjoy.

Conclusion

I’ve shared a decadent chocolate cake recipe that’s a must-try for all chocolate lovers. This moist and rich delight can cater to various dietary needs, from gluten-free to dairy-free and egg-free adaptations. With key ingredients like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. The detailed step-by-step directions and tips ensure success in baking this irresistible chocolate indulgence.

Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a novice, this recipe is straightforward and delicious. Store it properly to keep it fresh for several days, or freeze it for later enjoyment. Embrace the joy of baking and treat yourself to the best chocolate cake ever!

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