Moist Chocolate Layer Cake From Scratch

Name: Moist Chocolate Layer Cake From Scratch
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking soda; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/3 cup whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments

I absolutely love baking, especially when it comes to making cakes from scratch. This Moist Chocolate Layer Cake is one of my all-time favorites. Every bite is an indulgence, rich in flavor and decadently sweet. The process of creating this delightful dessert allows me to bring joy not only to myself, but to everyone I share it with. Trust me, the result is nothing short of spectacular, and you'll be surprised at how easy it is to make your own layer cake at home.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:01:36.740Z

Baking this Moist Chocolate Layer Cake is like a culinary adventure for me. I remember the first time I whipped up the batter; the intoxicating aroma of cocoa filled my kitchen and excited my senses. I experimented with different types of chocolate to find the perfect balance which turned out to be dark chocolate combined with semi-sweet chocolate chips. What’s great about this cake is that it stays moist for days, thanks to the addition of sour cream.

Each layer is a treat in itself, and I love adding a generous frosting to elevate it even further. The trick I’ve learned is to let the layers cool completely before frosting them; this prevents any melting and gives you that pristine, gorgeous finish. Honestly, with just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that will impress anyone you serve it to!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies every sweet tooth
Incredibly moist, ensuring every bite is delicious
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or a sweet treat

The Importance of Your Ingredients

When making this Moist Chocolate Layer Cake, the quality of your ingredients can significantly affect the flavor and texture. Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder is essential; it brings a rich depth of chocolate flavor. I recommend brands like Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother texture and more intense chocolate taste. Additionally, ensure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and airy one.

The role of eggs in this recipe cannot be overstated. They not only help bind the ingredients but also contribute to the cake's moisture and structure. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, you can substitute each egg with a quarter cup of unsweetened applesauce or a 'flax egg' (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, allowed to sit until gel-like). These adjustments can keep your cake structure without compromising its moistness.

Perfecting the Cake Layers

To achieve perfectly leveled cake layers, it’s crucial to ensure that your oven is preheated accurately. An oven thermometer can help verify that the temperature is correct before placing your cakes in. Also, when mixing the batter, be careful not to over-mix after adding the boiling water; this can lead to a tough texture. A good tip is to mix until everything is just combined, with a few small lumps remaining for the best results.

Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes; this helps them release easily without breaking. Using a cake leveler or serrated knife after they've completely cooled is a great way to ensure uniform layers, which can help in stacking with the frosting. If you encounter any slight doming on top, simply slice it off for a flat, stable base.

Frosting Tips and Tricks

When making the frosting, ensure the butter is softened to room temperature. This will make it easier to incorporate the powdered sugar and cocoa, resulting in a lighter texture. If your frosting appears too thick, you can thin it slightly with an additional tablespoon of milk until it reaches your desired spreading consistency. Conversely, if it's too runny, consider sifting in more powdered sugar to achieve the right fluffiness.

I love adding a splash of espresso to the frosting for an enhanced chocolate flavor. This can elevate the taste significantly without adding a coffee flavor. Additionally, if you have leftover frosting, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just re-whip it briefly before using to restore its original fluffy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start baking your delicious Moist Chocolate Layer Cake.

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a rich and delectable cake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake and assemble your Moist Chocolate Layer Cake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth. Slowly stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Prepare the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with milk, beating until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.

Your Moist Chocolate Layer Cake is now ready to serve and impress! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of espresso to the batter. It enhances the chocolate taste without being overpowering.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep your Moist Chocolate Layer Cake at its best, make sure to store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you anticipate longer storage, the cake can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap each layer individually in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving; this helps retain moisture.

For make-ahead options, you can bake the cake layers one day in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly and store in the fridge. This not only makes assembly easier but can also enhance the flavor as the layers have time to settle. Just be sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before frosting for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is versatile and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. For an extra special touch, consider garnishing the top with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving. You could also pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast.

If you're feeling adventurous, think about layering in some raspberry or peanut butter filling between the layers. These additions can heighten the overall flavor and offer a surprising twist that perfectly complements the chocolate. Experimenting with different fillings can become your signature touch when serving this lovely cake to friends and family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but remember to adjust the measurements accordingly.

→ How can I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer. When ready to serve, let them thaw completely before frosting.

→ What other flavors can I add?

You can add variations like orange zest or mint extract to the batter for creative twists on the classic chocolate flavor.