Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of pure, heavenly delight - a classic yellow cake that promises to transport you back to grandma's kitchen, topped with the most decadent chocolate frosting you've ever tasted. This isn't just any cake; it's a nostalgic journey of rich, buttery layers and velvety chocolate that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet escape, this timeless dessert is guaranteed to become your new favorite go-to recipe that will impress family and friends alike!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup butter for frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder to remove any lumps and ensure even distribution.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove cakes from the oven and let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- For the chocolate frosting, cream butter until smooth, then gradually mix in cocoa powder and powdered sugar.
- Add milk or cream as needed to achieve desired frosting consistency.
- Once cakes are completely cool, spread frosting between layers and over the entire cake, creating smooth, even layers.
- Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for additional decoration.
Tips
- Ingredient Temperature Matters: Always use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother, more uniform batter that ensures a tender cake.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your batter just until ingredients are combined to prevent a tough, dense cake texture.
- Check Cake Doneness: Use the toothpick test - insert it into the center, and if it comes out clean with just a few crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure a smooth, professional finish.
- Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time; if too thin, gradually mix in more powdered sugar.
- Even Layers: Use a cake leveler or long serrated knife to create flat, even cake layers for a professional-looking presentation.
- Chill for Perfection: Refrigerate the cake for 15-20 minutes after frosting to help set the chocolate frosting and make clean, crisp slices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 95mg
