Name: Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all purpose flour; 2 cups white sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 pinch salt; 1 cup milk; ½ cup Vegetable Oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup Hot coffee; 2 eggs

Dive into the world of decadence with this moist chocolate cake recipe. This isn't your ordinary chocolate cake - it's rich, fudgy, and oh-so-moist, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients, this cake is easy to whip up and is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Photos of Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this moist chocolate cake recipe are typical pantry staples. However, one ingredient that might not be readily available in your pantry is unsweetened cocoa powder. You can easily find it in the baking aisle of any supermarket. Also, hot coffee is used in this recipe to enhance the flavor of the chocolate. If you don't have a coffee maker at home, instant coffee granules dissolved in hot water will work just as well.

Ingredients for the Moist Chocolate Cake

All purpose flour: This is the base of the cake and provides structure.

White sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps to make it moist.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake a rich chocolate flavor.

Baking soda and baking powder: Leavening agents that help the cake rise.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Milk: Adds moisture and helps with the overall texture of the cake.

Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps make the cake tender.

Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.

Hot coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor, making the cake richer.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and aid in leavening.

One reader, Jeramie Lundgren says:

This moist chocolate cake recipe is a game-changer! The cake turned out incredibly rich and moist, with a perfect balance of sweetness. The addition of hot coffee really enhanced the chocolate flavor. It's a hit with my family and friends. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful chocolatey treat!

Jeramie Lundgren

Techniques Required for Making a Moist Chocolate Cake

How to prepare the batter: Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl, then add the wet ingredients and mix until well combined. The batter should be thin and smooth.

How to bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Pour the batter into two greased and floured 9-inch round pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top of the cake springs back when touched.

How to cool the cake layers: Once baked, cool the cake layers on wire racks to room temperature before assembling the cake.

How to serve: Slice and serve the moist chocolate cake as desired.

How To Make Moist Chocolate Cake

You can never go wrong with a decadent and moist chocolate cake! With hints of vanilla and brewed coffee for a delightful twist on the classic dessert.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsall purpose flour
2cupswhite sugar
¾cupunsweetened cocoa powder
2tspbaking soda
1tspbaking powder
1pinchsalt
1cupmilk
½cupvegetable oil
1tspvanilla extract
1cuphot coffee,brewed
2eggs

Instructions

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, soda, and salt.
Add the oil, milk, vanilla, coffee, and eggs; beat well. The batter will be thin. Pour into two 9-inch greased and floured round pans.
Bake at 325 degrees F for 25 minutes, or when the top springs back when done. Cool the layers on wire racks.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 323.65kcal
Fat: 11.62g
Saturated Fat: 1.68g
Trans Fat: 0.07g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.88g
Carbohydrates: 53.50g
Fiber: 2.55g
Sugar: 34.51g
Protein: 4.77g
Cholesterol: 28.69mg
Sodium: 273.52mg
Calcium: 66.00mg
Potassium: 151.82mg
Iron: 1.91mg
Vitamin A: 20.82µg

Crucial Technique for Achieving a Perfectly Moist Chocolate Cake

When preparing your moist chocolate cake, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This will help them combine more easily and create a smoother batter. Also, when adding the hot coffee, pour it in slowly while continuously stirring the batter. This will prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely from the heat. Lastly, don't overmix the batter as it can result in a dense cake. Just mix until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy cake.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Chocolate Cake Recipe

Prep ahead: Measure and sift dry ingredients the night before. Store them in an airtight container to save time on prep the next day.

One-bowl wonders: Look for recipes that require minimal dishes and steps. This will streamline your cooking process and reduce cleanup time.

Efficient organization: Arrange ingredients and tools in the order they are used to avoid searching and save time during cooking.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of certain components and freeze them for future use. This can include sauces, broths, or pre-cooked grains.

Quick cleanup: Wash and put away utensils and tools as you cook to keep your workspace organized and reduce post-cooking cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe

all purpose flour - Substitute with cake flour: Cake flour has a lower protein content than all-purpose flour, resulting in a more tender and delicate crumb in the cake.
white sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper flavor and moisture to the cake due to its molasses content.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with melted dark chocolate: Melted dark chocolate can add richness and depth of flavor to the cake.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda, but it may affect the texture and flavor slightly.
milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the cake crumb.
vegetable oil - Substitute with melted butter: Melted butter can add richness and flavor to the cake.
hot coffee - Substitute with hot water: Hot water can be used as a substitute for hot coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor without adding coffee flavor.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a binding agent and adds moisture to the cake.

Presentation Ideas for a Deliciously Moist Chocolate Cake

Elevate the plating: When presenting the moist chocolate cake, ensure the plate is clean and free of any smudges or spills. Use a large, white, or neutral-colored plate to allow the rich, dark color of the cake to stand out.
Garnish with fresh berries: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate by garnishing with a selection of fresh berries. This not only adds visual appeal but also complements the richness of the chocolate.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by incorporating delicate, edible flowers into the presentation. Choose flowers that are safe for consumption and add a sophisticated, gourmet touch to the dish.
Dust with cocoa powder: Lightly dust the plate with a fine, even layer of cocoa powder before placing the cake. This adds a professional and artistic touch to the presentation.
Accompany with a quenelle of whipped cream: Serve the moist chocolate cake with a carefully crafted quenelle of whipped cream. The smooth, rounded shape of the quenelle adds a refined and polished look to the dessert.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce: Create an elegant drizzle of rich, glossy chocolate sauce on the plate before placing the cake. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a decadent touch to the overall presentation.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a truly luxurious presentation, consider adding a delicate, edible gold leaf to the plate. This adds a touch of opulence and sophistication to the dessert.
Serve with a side of vanilla bean ice cream: Accompany the moist chocolate cake with a small scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of temperatures and flavors elevates the overall dining experience.

Essential Tools for Baking a Perfect Chocolate Cake

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the dry and wet ingredients together to form the cake batter.
Whisk: A whisk is used to thoroughly mix the ingredients, ensuring a smooth and well-combined batter.
Measuring cups and spoons: These are necessary for accurately measuring the ingredients to ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures in the cake.
Sifter: A sifter is used to sift the dry ingredients such as flour and cocoa powder, ensuring a smooth and lump-free batter.
Round cake pans: These pans are used to bake the cake layers, providing the desired shape and structure for the moist chocolate cake.
Wire racks: Wire racks are used for cooling the baked cake layers, allowing air to circulate around the cakes and prevent sogginess.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the cake at the specified temperature, ensuring that it cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Electric mixer: An electric mixer can be used to beat the ingredients together, creating a smooth and well-mixed cake batter.
Measuring jug: A measuring jug is used to accurately measure and pour the liquid ingredients such as milk and oil into the cake batter.
Coffee maker: A coffee maker is used to brew the hot coffee that adds depth of flavor to the moist chocolate cake.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Moist Chocolate Cake

Once the chocolate cake has cooled completely, you can store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
If you want to keep the cake fresh for a longer period, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Again, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to protect it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
For even longer storage, you can freeze the chocolate cake for up to 2-3 months. Here's how:
- Wrap the cooled cake tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil.
- Label the wrapped cake with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when it was frozen.
- When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, unwrap the cake and let it come to room temperature before serving.
If you want to freeze individual slices of the chocolate cake, follow these steps:
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- To thaw individual slices, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour, or in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.
Pro tip: If you're freezing the cake with frosting or icing, place the cake uncovered in the freezer for about an hour, or until the frosting is firm. Then, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before storing it in the freezer. This will help prevent the frosting from sticking to the wrapping material.

How To Reheat Leftover Chocolate Cake

To reheat leftover moist chocolate cake, first ensure that the cake has been stored properly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
The best way to reheat the cake is to use the microwave. Place a single slice of cake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds. If the cake is not warm enough, continue to heat it in 5-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature.
Another method is to use the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cake on a baking sheet. Cover the cake with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and heat it for 5-10 minutes, or until it is warm throughout.
If you have a steamer, you can also use it to reheat the cake. Place the cake in a steamer basket and steam it for 2-3 minutes, or until it is warm and moist.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat the cake in a skillet. Place a slice of cake in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cover it with a lid. Heat the cake for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it is warm and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated cake, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar or cocoa powder on top for a decorative touch.

Interesting Trivia About Chocolate Cake

Chocolate cake is believed to have been created in 1764 by Dr. James Baker, who discovered how to make chocolate by grinding cocoa beans between two massive millstones. This invention laid the groundwork for the creation of the moist and delectable chocolate cake we enjoy today.

Is Making Moist Chocolate Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this moist chocolate cake recipe is quite high, as the ingredients are commonly found in most households. The use of basic pantry staples and affordable items like flour, sugar, and cocoa powder makes it budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, depending on the quality of ingredients. As a culinary chef, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its cost-effectiveness and delicious outcome.

Is This Chocolate Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This chocolate cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of sugar (2 cups), which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
The use of all-purpose flour means the cake lacks whole grains and the beneficial nutrients they provide.
Cocoa powder does offer some health benefits, such as antioxidants, but the sugar content may outweigh these advantages.
The recipe includes vegetable oil, which is likely high in unhealthy saturated and trans fats.

However, there are some redeeming qualities:

The recipe does include milk, which provides calcium and other essential nutrients.
The eggs offer a source of protein and healthy fats.
The coffee can enhance the chocolate flavor while also providing some antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the sugar content by at least 25% and replace some of the remaining sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Replace the vegetable oil with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or Greek yogurt.
Add in some shredded zucchini or carrots for moisture and extra nutrients.
Top the cake with fresh berries instead of frosting for a healthier twist.

Editor's Opinion on This Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe

This moist chocolate cake recipe is a classic and reliable choice for any occasion. The combination of cocoa, coffee, and oil creates a rich and moist texture, while the addition of vanilla enhances the flavor profile. The use of hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor, resulting in a decadent and indulgent cake. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, and the end result is sure to impress. Whether for a special celebration or a simple treat, this chocolate cake is a delightful and satisfying choice.

Enhance Your Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the rich and moist chocolate cake.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, a refreshing and light side dish to complement the decadent chocolate cake.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, adding a burst of flavor to balance out the richness of the chocolate cake.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Moist Chocolate Cake

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. The combination of fresh tomatoes, basil, and cream creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Garlic parmesan roasted broccoli is a simple and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. The broccoli is roasted to perfection with garlic, parmesan, and a touch of olive oil for a crispy and flavorful result.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: These mango coconut popsicles are a refreshing and tropical treat that is perfect for a hot summer day. The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut milk creates a creamy and delicious popsicle that the whole family will love.

Suggested Appetizers and Entrées to Serve with Moist Chocolate Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful and flavorful caprese skewers. Alternate cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves on skewers, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for a refreshing and elegant starter.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying, this classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser. The tender chicken and al dente pasta are smothered in a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef, hearty mushrooms, and savory onions come together in a luscious, velvety sauce that is simply irresistible. Served over a bed of buttery egg noodles, this comforting dish is the epitome of cozy, home-cooked goodness.

Why trust this Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe:

This recipe is a tried and true classic, guaranteed to satisfy any craving for a decadent chocolate cake. With a perfect balance of cocoa powder and sugar, it promises a rich and moist texture that will leave you craving for more. The addition of hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, while vanilla extract adds a delightful aroma. The use of vegetable oil ensures a moist crumb, and the incorporation of eggs provides structure. Trust in the simplicity and reliability of this recipe to deliver a delectable dessert every time.

Want to share your experience making this moist chocolate cake or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

How can I make the cake more moist?

To make the cake more moist, you can try adding a little extra oil or using buttermilk instead of regular milk in the recipe. You can also try adding a small amount of sour cream or yogurt to the batter.

Can I use something else instead of coffee?

Yes, if you prefer not to use coffee, you can substitute it with hot water. The hot water will help to enhance the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste to the cake.

Can I use a different type of cocoa powder?

Absolutely! You can use either natural or Dutch-processed cocoa powder in this recipe. Just make sure to use the same amount as specified in the recipe.

Can I make this cake in a different pan size?

Yes, you can adjust the baking time and the pan size according to your preference. Just keep an eye on the cake while it's baking and use a toothpick to check for doneness.

Can I freeze the cake layers?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw them in the refrigerator before using.