Indulge in Decadence: Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ah, chocolate cake. Is there anything quite like the rich, luscious layers softly crumbling under a fork? If you’re a busy mom, a professional woman juggling countless tasks, or someone just trying to treat yourself (no judgment here!), this Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is about to become your best friend in the kitchen! Whether it’s a celebration, a family gathering, or just a Tuesday that needs saving, this cake is the answer to your dessert dreams.
Let’s dive into why this delightful dessert will be your go-to recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Imagine walking into your kitchen, the sweet aroma of chocolate wafting through the air. Nothing says “I’m a culinary genius” quite like a homemade chocolate cake that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With its moist layers and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for getting your loved ones to gather around the table—or even just cozying up with a slice all by yourself (we’ve all been there!).
Ingredients
Let’s gather our cast of characters. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this chocolatey perfection:
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Steps to Deliciousness
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Trust me, you want to avoid that "stuck to the pan" drama.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Don’t you love a well-organized kitchen adventure?
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Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix it all up until it’s well combined. The mix should be smooth and creamy—sort of like a cozy hug for your taste buds.
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Now comes the fun part! Carefully stir in the boiling water. This might feel a bit strange—but I promise you, it’s magical in making the cake super moist.
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Pour equal amounts into the prepared pans and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. (Not that you would poke at it a million times while it bakes…right?)
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Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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While those beauties cool down, let’s whip up the frosting! Beat the cream cheese and butter together until they’re creamy and well combined.
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Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy. This frosting is pure bliss in a bowl, folks!
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Place one cake layer on your serving plate, and generously spread a layer of frosting on top. Gently place the second layer on top, and spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake. Don’t worry about it being perfect—rustic is a style, right?
Cooking Tips
- If you’re in a pinch for time, feel free to use a store-bought chocolate cake mix. Just make sure to jazz it up with that homemade cream cheese frosting!
- Want to add a little flair? Top your frosted cake with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or even sprinkles if you’re feeling festive.
- Remember: cupcakes are just cake with a personal touch! Make mini versions for quick treats.
FAQs
Can I bake this as cupcakes?
Absolutely! Just fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes. It’s a win-win for parties and lunchboxes alike!
What can I substitute for the cream cheese if I want something lighter?
Greek yogurt is a great alternative! It’ll give you a lighter frosting, though it may have a slightly tangier flavor.
Can I freeze the cake?
You can freeze the cooled cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just frost it fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!
Isn’t it great to know that you can tackle chocolate cake without too much fuss? This Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is truly a gem in the baking world, just waiting to bring joy to your kitchen. So, grab that apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create some delicious memories together!
And hey, if you enjoyed this recipe, check out some of my other chocolate delights here or for helpful baking tips that will elevate your cake game!
Meta Description: Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect recipe for dessert lovers. Quick, easy, and delicious, this cake will brighten your day!