This Chocolate Birthday Cake is rich, moist, and perfect for any celebration. The deep cocoa flavor, combined with a smooth and creamy chocolate buttercream frosting, makes it a showstopper at any birthday party. With its soft crumb and velvety texture, this cake is both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday or simply want to treat yourself, this classic cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make and decorate, allowing you to get creative with sprinkles, candles, or fresh fruit for the ultimate birthday centerpiece.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
- Slowly stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating on low speed until combined.
- Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. If needed, add more cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops with a knife if necessary.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
- Decorate with sprinkles, fruit, or birthday candles as desired.
- Serve:
- Slice and enjoy your delicious chocolate birthday cake!
