Chocolate Cake with Buttercream

Chocolate Cake with Buttercream is a rich, moist cake layered with creamy, smooth buttercream frosting. It's a favorite dessert in many parts of the world and can be found in bakeries, cafes, and home kitchens alike, especially in Western countries and across the globe for celebrations like birthdays, weddings, and special events.

 Chocolate Cake with Buttercream Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 ½ tsp baking powder

1 ½ tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

2 cups granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 cup milk

½ cup vegetable oil

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water

For the Buttercream:

1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

3 ½ cups powdered sugar

½ cup cocoa powder

2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

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

2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until fluffy. Add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract, and mix well.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.

5. Stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin, but that's okay).

6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

2. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes.

3. Transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating on low speed until combined.

3. Add the milk (1 tablespoon at a time), vanilla extract, and salt. Increase speed to medium and beat until smooth and creamy.

4. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate.

2. Spread a thick layer of buttercream on top, then place the second cake layer on top of the first.

3. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream.

4. Decorate with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit if desired.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice and serve the chocolate cake at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee!

Enjoy the rich, chocolatey flavor and the smooth, velvety buttercream frosting!