If you’re looking for the perfect simple moist chocolate cake recipe, your search ends here. This recipe is incredibly easy to make with just one bowl, and it delivers a rich, chocolaty flavor with a delightfully fudgy frosting. Ideal for any occasion, this cake stays moist for days and even improves with age. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some helpful tips to make the best chocolate cake ever.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture.
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Use high-quality cocoa for the best flavor.
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda: Works with the baking powder for leavening.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and tenderness.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Ensures the cake stays moist and tender.
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup hot coffee: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and helps dissolve the sugar.

For the Fudgy Chocolate Frosting:

• 8 oz dark chocolate (60% cocoa solids recommended): For a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup sour cream (full-fat): Adds creaminess and tang.
• ½ cup powdered sugar (optional): For a sweeter frosting.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Whisk to combine.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. The batter will be thick.
5. Add Hot Coffee: Slowly add the hot coffee in two additions, mixing well after each. The batter will be runny.

Bake the Cake:

1. Divide the Batter: Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared pans.
2. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Fudgy Chocolate Frosting:

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
2. Combine with Sour Cream: In a medium bowl, combine the melted chocolate and sour cream. Stir until smooth and well combined. Add powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter frosting.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Layer and Frost: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
2. Optional Decoration: Decorate with chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

Reviews

This simple moist chocolate cake recipe has received rave reviews for its rich flavor and ease of preparation. Many have praised the cake for its perfect balance of sweetness and moistness, making it a favorite for birthdays, celebrations, and even casual family dinners.

Community Tips and Praise

Jinglebells: “Loved this cake. It turned out so moist and rich. We all loved it. I am going to add more cocoa powder next time just because we all like chocolate so much. Easy to make and delicious.”

Kali Hintz says, “I make this cake all the time, and my family loves it. They request it whenever they get the chance. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare and cook!”The recipe is delicious, the cake is rich in flavor and also very moist. My number one choice of cake so far.”

Hannah Culbertson: “This was fantastic. Like many others, I was a bit apprehensive after adding the water. But the cake was great! I actually made cupcakes, and it made 24 overflowing cupcakes. They tasted so good. Rich and fluffy all at the same time.”

Expert Baking Tips

• Flour Measurement: Use a kitchen scale for accurate flour measurement. If using cups, fluff the flour with a spoon, spoon it into the cup, and level it off with a knife.
• Oil: Use a neutral oil like sunflower or canola for the cleanest flavor.
• Coffee: Intensifies the chocolate flavor without imparting a coffee taste.
• Baking Time: Check the cake at the minimum time to prevent overbaking.

With this simple moist chocolate cake recipe, you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy baking and savor every chocolaty bite!