Looking for an incredibly moist and irresistible chocolate cake recipe? Look no further! This delicious buttermilk chocolate cake will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving for more. It’s a homemade dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends.
With simple ingredients that you mostly have in your pantry, this cake is super easy to make. The key to its moist and balanced crumb lies in the addition of buttermilk and water. The buttermilk gives it a rich tangy flavor, while the water helps the cake rise and keeps it moist.
For the chocolate lovers out there, this cake is a dream come true. It’s made with regular cocoa powder, but you can also use dark cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor. The best part is that the recipe also includes a homemade buttercream frosting that is fluffy and adds an extra layer of sweetness.
Here’s how you can make this delicious buttermilk chocolate cake: Start by whisking together the dry ingredients – flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the wet ingredients – eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Then, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and fold gently until well mixed.
Next, pour the batter into two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, it’s time to frost them. You can use a buttercream frosting of your choice or follow our homemade buttercream recipe. A double batch of buttercream should be enough to frost the entire cake. Feel free to get creative and add some decorations or sprinkles to make it even more special.
And there you have it – a delicious buttermilk chocolate cake that will impress everyone who tries it. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a sweet treat for yourself. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and tools and get ready to bake this amazing buttermilk chocolate cake. Follow the instructions carefully, and you won’t be disappointed. And don’t forget to let us know how it turned out in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!
Delicious Buttermilk Chocolate Cake Recipe
If you’re a chocolate lover, this recipe is sure to be a hit! This delicious buttermilk chocolate cake is not only easy to make, but it also yields an amazing result. The rich cocoa flavor combined with the light and moist crumb will leave your mouth watering for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 and ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, separated
- 1 and ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup hot water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar until well combined and light in color.
- Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter until fully incorporated.
- Slowly pour in the hot water and mix until well combined. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay – it will rise beautifully!
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cakes have cooled, you can frost them with your favorite frosting or enjoy them as is! This delicious buttermilk chocolate cake will impress your family and friends with its rich flavor and moist texture. Make sure to adjust the ingredients if needed, as different cocoa powder brands may require different amounts.
Ingredients for Chocolate Cake
When it comes to making a delicious buttermilk chocolate cake, the right ingredients can make all the difference. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
These ingredients are usually found in most kitchens, so you shouldn’t have any trouble gathering them. Make sure to whisk the dry ingredients together in a large bowl and set them aside.
One of the key ingredients in this recipe is buttermilk. It not only adds a light and fluffy texture to the cake but also helps to balance the sweetness of the cocoa powder. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can use regular milk instead. Just add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow it to curdle.
Another important ingredient is the boiling water. This may seem unusual, but it actually helps to bring out the rich flavor of the cocoa powder and makes the cake extra moist. Don’t worry, you won’t taste the coffee or notice any other interactions. It just enhances the chocolatey goodness of the cake.
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to move on to the next step of making this delicious buttermilk chocolate cake.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking
Follow these simple steps to make a delicious buttermilk chocolate cake from scratch:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you have the following ingredients before getting started:
- 1 cup of butter (softened)
- 2 cups of sugar
- 4 large eggs (separated)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1/2 cup of hot water
Step 2: Preparing the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Final Mixing and Folding
In a small bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter until well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased and floured cake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Frosting the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, you can frost it to your liking. You can make a simple powdered sugar frosting by mixing powdered sugar with a little water or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can use a ready-made frosting from a store. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula or a butter knife.
Enjoy your homemade delicious buttermilk chocolate cake! Don’t forget to take a picture and share it on Instagram using the hashtag #deliciouscake.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Cake
Making a delicious buttermilk chocolate cake from scratch is an amazing experience, and with a few tips and tricks, you can ensure that your cake turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these suggestions will help you achieve a fluffy, moist, and flavorful cake that will impress everyone who takes a bite.
Measure Accurately
When it comes to baking, accurate measurements are crucial. Use measuring cups and spoons instead of eyeballing the ingredients, as even slight variations can impact the final result. Make sure to level off the top of the measuring cup or spoon to get the right amount.
Sift the Dry Ingredients
Sifting the dry ingredients, such as flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, will ensure that they are well combined and not lumpy. This step will help the cake rise evenly and have a smoother texture. If you don’t have a sifter, you can use a fine-mesh sieve.
Fold in the Ingredients
When adding the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, make sure to fold them in gently. This technique will prevent overmixing and keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough cake.
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Adjust Temperature and Baking Time
Every oven is different, so it’s important to keep an eye on the cake and make necessary adjustments. If your cake is browning too quickly, you can reduce the temperature slightly. On the other hand, if it’s taking longer to bake, you may need to increase the temperature. Always follow the recipe instructions as a starting point and make adjustments as needed.
Prepare the Pans Properly
To ensure that your cake doesn’t stick to the pans, properly grease and flour them. You can use cooking spray or brush the pans with melted butter, and then dust them with flour. This step will make it easier to remove the cake from the pans after baking.
Add a Moistening Syrup
If you want to add extra moisture and flavor to your cake, consider brushing it with a simple syrup while it’s still warm. The syrup can be made by mixing equal parts sugar and water and heating until the sugar dissolves. This step will keep the cake from drying out and add an extra dimension to the taste.
Let the Cake Cool Fully Before Frosting
It’s important to let the cake cool completely before applying the frosting. If the cake is still warm, the frosting may melt and slide off. Additionally, a warm cake can create condensation, which can make the frosting runny. To speed up the cooling process, you can place the cake in the refrigerator.
With these tips and tricks in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a perfect buttermilk chocolate cake that everyone will love. Have fun experimenting and enjoy the delicious results!
Variations and Additions to the Recipe
If you love chocolate, there are plenty of ways to add even more chocolatey goodness to this delicious buttermilk chocolate cake recipe. Here are a few ideas:
Add Chocolate Chips:
For a mouth-watering twist, watch as the chocolate chips melt into the fluffy cake. Pour in a generous amount of chocolate chips to the batter before baking and enjoy the amazing chocolatey surprise!
Try a Different Frosting:
If you’re not a fan of buttercream frosting, or you simply want to try something different, instead of frosting the cake, why not go for a ganache? A rich and creamy chocolate ganache will add a special touch to your cake.
Pecan Brownies:
If you have a favorite brownie recipe, please them in the bottom of the cake pans before pouring the cake batter. The pecan brownie layer will add extra sweetness and a delightful crunch to each bite.
Adjust the Chocolate Flavor:
If you want a stronger chocolate flavor, add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the buttermilk and let it dissolve. This will help balance the sweetness of the cake and give it a deeper and more intense chocolate taste. Just make sure to adjust the amount of cocoa powder accordingly.
Coffee Extract:
For those who love the combination of coffee and chocolate, adding a teaspoon or two of coffee extract to the batter can take this cake to a whole new level of deliciousness. The subtle coffee flavor will enhance the chocolate taste and make this dessert even more irresistible.
Add Nuts:
If you enjoy the added texture and flavor of nuts, stir in a handful of your favorite chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the batter before baking. It will not only add a delightful crunch but also provide an extra touch of sweetness.
These variations and additions can be mixed and matched to suit your taste preferences. The recipe itself is quite flexible, so feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
When it comes to serving this delicious buttermilk chocolate cake, there are plenty of options to consider. From simple to elaborate, here are some ideas to make your dessert even more special:
1. Frosting Variations
This cake tastes great with a variety of frostings. While the recipe suggests a classic buttercream, you can also try cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a caramel drizzle. Get creative and experiment with different flavors!
2. Decorating with Caster Sugar
For a simple and elegant presentation, sprinkle some caster sugar on top of the cake just before serving. This will add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful snowy effect to the chocolatey dessert.
3. Adding a Nutty Crunch
If you love nuts, consider adding some chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake batter. The crunchy texture and nutty flavor will complement the moist and fluffy chocolate cake perfectly.
4. Serving with Fresh Berries
To balance out the richness of the chocolate, serve the cake with a side of fresh berries. Raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries work well and add a burst of freshness to every bite.
5. Making Mini Cakes or Cupcakes
If you’re looking for a fun twist on this recipe, try making mini cakes or cupcakes instead of a traditional round cake. The smaller portion sizes are great for parties or individual servings, and they’re also perfect for sharing with friends and family.
6. Drizzling with Chocolate Sauce
For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the cake slices just before serving. The combination of the rich chocolate cake and the silky chocolate sauce will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
7. Dusting with Cocoa Powder
These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to get creative and come up with your own presentation ideas for this delicious buttermilk chocolate cake. Whether you’re serving it at a casual gathering or a formal event, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Feedback and Reviews from Readers
Our readers have provided valuable feedback and reviews for our delicious Buttermilk Chocolate Cake recipe. Here are some comments and suggestions that will enhance your dessert-making experience:
- “I tried this recipe and it turned out to be one of the best homemade cakes I have ever made! The buttermilk adds a special flavor and moisture to the cake.” – Lisa
- “Instead of regular cocoa powder, I used dark cocoa powder for a richer chocolate taste. It worked perfectly!” – TexasBaker
- “To add a little oomph to the cake, I folded in some crushed pecans. It added a nice crunch to the crumb.” – BakerGirl
- “I decided to make smaller cakes using extra-large muffin pans. They baked in about 20 minutes and were the perfect individual-sized treats.” – DessertLover
- “If you want to try something different, you can swap half of the buttermilk with espresso. It gives the cake a super rich coffee flavor!” – CoffeeAddict
- “The buttercream frosting recipe was spot on. I didn’t need to make any adjustments. It was smooth and creamy, exactly how I like it.” – SweetTooth
These are just a few of the many positive comments we have received from our readers. We are thrilled that our recipe has been such a hit and that people are enjoying making this delicious Buttermilk Chocolate Cake. Keep the feedback coming! We love hearing from you and will do our best to reply to your comments and suggestions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
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How long does it take to make this delicious buttermilk chocolate cake?
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Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of dark cocoa powder?
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What kind of chocolate can I use for the buttercream frosting?
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Should I use water or coffee to dissolve the cocoa powder?
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How much buttermilk and cocoa powder do I need if I want to make a smaller cake?
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How do I adjust the baking time for an extra-large cake?
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Do I need a special mixer to beat the buttercream frosting?
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Can I frost the cake immediately or should I let it cool first?
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What flavor extract can I use instead of vanilla extract?
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Can you provide step-by-step instructions for making the buttercream frosting?
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Is there a way to make the cake moist and chocolatey without using buttermilk?
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How long should I whisk the eggs in the buttercream frosting?
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Can I use caster sugar instead of powdered sugar for the frosting?
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What can I do if my cake doesn’t rise as high as expected?
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How can I make the cake more special for a special occasion?
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Can I double the recipe to make a larger cake?
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How do I adjust the baking time if I want to make individual brownies instead?
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Are there any nutrition notes for this recipe?
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What are some tips for folding in the dry ingredients?
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Can I add nuts or other add-ins to the cake batter?
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Should I leave the coffee out if I don’t like the taste of it?
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How do I keep the buttercream frosting softer?
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Can I use this recipe to make a layer cake instead?
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What can I use instead of buttermilk if I don’t have any on hand?
Reader Interactions and Sharing Options
If you love this delicious buttermilk chocolate cake recipe and want to make it even more special, there are a few options for you to try:
1. Adding a Frosting or Buttercream: While this cake is amazing on its own, you can add a layer of chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting to make it even more decadent.
2. Mix in Some Crunch: If you’re a fan of texture in your desserts, you can fold in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter right before baking. They’ll add a nice crunch to every bite.
3. Double the Chocolate Flavor: If you’re a hardcore chocolate lover, you can add a little bit of cocoa powder and a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey kick.
4. Try Different Frosting Flavors: While the classic chocolate frosting is delicious, you can experiment with different flavors such as espresso or even a salted caramel frosting for a unique twist.
5. Share It on Social Media: If you make this cake and love it, be sure to share it on Instagram or other social media platforms using the hashtag #chocolatecake. Your friends and followers will drool over your homemade dessert!
So go ahead and enjoy this scrumptious chocolate cake recipe. Whether you choose to keep it simple or experiment with different additions, you won’t be disappointed with the final result. The moist crumb, balanced sweetness, and rich chocolate flavor make this cake a crowd favorite.
FAQ
Can I omit the espresso powder in the recipe?
Yes, you can omit the espresso powder in the recipe if you prefer. However, espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor and adds depth to the cake, so it is recommended to use it if possible.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?
Yes, you can use regular coffee in place of espresso powder. Just make sure to brew it strong to get a similar flavor. You may need to adjust the amount in the recipe to achieve the desired taste.
Can I use a different type of flour?
This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you can try using other types of flour like cake flour or whole wheat flour if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may affect the texture and taste of the cake.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the cake?
Yes, you can add nuts or other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit to the cake batter if you’d like. Just fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the pans.
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?
Yes, you can substitute regular coffee for espresso powder in this recipe. Just make sure it’s strong and brewed, as the coffee flavor will be more pronounced.
