Description
This Decadent Layered Chocolate Cake features rich, moist layers made with cocoa powder and sour cream, covered in a creamy, fluffy chocolate buttercream frosting. Perfect for celebrations or any chocolate craving, this easy-to-make cake delivers a truly indulgent dessert experience with a classic American flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans ensuring they are evenly coated to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of all dry components.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Beat: Add in the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Boiling Water: Carefully stir in the boiling water; the batter will become thin. This step helps to create a moist and tender crumb in the cake.
- Fold in Sour Cream: Gently fold in the sour cream to add richness and moisture to the batter.
- Divide and Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing thoroughly. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, then beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and frost the top. Stack the second layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake. Use an offset spatula to smooth the frosting for a professional finish.
Notes
- For extra indulgence, add a layer of chocolate ganache or sprinkle chocolate chips between the cake layers.
- This cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added contrast and flavor.
