The Best Rich Chocolate Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate rich chocolate cake recipe, you’ve come to the right place! As a former baker, I’ve perfected this indulgent treat—moist, fudgy, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. Whether it’s for a birthday, special occasion, or just to satisfy your chocolate cravings, this cake will never disappoint.

Why This Chocolate Cake Is the Best

• Super Moist & Fudgy – Buttermilk and hot coffee keep it incredibly soft.

• Intense Chocolate Flavor – A mix of cocoa powder and melted chocolate ensures a deep, rich taste.

• Easy to Make – No complicated techniques, just simple ingredients for an outstanding result.

Rich Chocolate Cake Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk

• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee (or hot water)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

• 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar

• ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder

• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

3. Add eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.

4. Slowly pour in hot coffee (or water), stirring until the batter is smooth. It will be thin—this is normal!

Step 2: Bake the Cake

5. Divide batter evenly between the cake pans.

6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Frosting

8. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy.

9. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well.

10. Pour in heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

11. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting.

12. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.

13. For an extra touch, garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Cake

✔ Use Buttermilk – It adds richness and keeps the cake moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

✔ Don’t Skip the Coffee – It enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.

✔ Chill Before Frosting – If the cake is too warm, the frosting will melt.

Enjoy Your Perfect Chocolate Cake!

Now that you have my go-to chocolate cake recipe, I hope you’ll give it a try! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this cake is sure to impress. Happy baking!