Chocolate Cake With Moist Cocoa Crumb

Name: Chocolate Cake With Moist Cocoa Crumb
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
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 buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Treats from the Oven

I absolutely love baking, and when it comes to chocolate cake, there's nothing quite like the rich, deep flavors that come from cocoa. We wanted to create a dessert that not only satisfied our chocolate cravings but also had a lovely moist crumb. After much experimentation, I've mastered this recipe, which delivers an utterly indulgent cake that is perfect for any occasion. The secret lies in the blend of ingredients and the technique used, making each slice a delightful experience for everyone who tries it.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:46:25.229Z

Every time I bake this cake, I’m reminded of the joy that comes from sharing delicious treats with loved ones. One day, while experimenting in the kitchen, I tried using a combination of buttermilk and vegetable oil, which not only enhances the moisture but also helps create that wonderful crumb texture. It was a game changer, and I can’t recommend it enough!

As I watched my friends and family devour this cake, I knew I had something special in my hands. The satisfaction of seeing their happy faces while enjoying a slice is what keeps me perfecting the recipe. Remember, letting the cake cool completely before frosting is key to a beautiful finish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with moist cocoa crumb
Lovely texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for birthday celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Mastering the Cocoa Crumb

The key to achieving the moist cocoa crumb that makes this chocolate cake exceptional lies in the careful balance of wet to dry ingredients. The addition of boiling water not only helps to dissolve the cocoa, enhancing its rich flavor, but it also activates the baking powder and baking soda, ensuring a lighter texture. Be cautious when adding the boiling water; mix it in gradually to avoid splashing and ensure an even batter that bakes uniformly.

Another important factor is the use of buttermilk, which adds acidity and moisture. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by combining regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before using. This not only contributes to the cake's tenderness but also enhances the chocolate flavor, creating that desirable depth.

When mixing the ingredients, it's crucial to avoid overmixing once you combine the wet and dry mixtures. Stir gently until just combined to maintain that delightful lightness. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, which is not the texture we’re aiming for. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Perfecting the Frosting

This chocolate frosting is a rich counterpart to the cake's moist crumb. Start by creaming the softened butter until it's light and fluffy; this step is crucial to achieving a smooth, glossy frosting. Be patient—this can take about 3 to 5 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This helps to avoid a dusty mess and ensures an even incorporation of the ingredients.

To achieve a spreadable consistency, adjust the milk quantity as needed. If your frosting is too thick, add a dash more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired texture. Conversely, if it becomes too runny, adding a bit more powdered sugar will thicken it up. Remember, it’s easier to add than to remove, so make adjustments incrementally.

When frosting the cake, use an offset spatula for a smooth finish. Start with a generous amount on the top layer, spreading outward and letting it drip down the sides for an appealing look. If you're feeling creative, you can create swirls or peaks with the spatula for added visual appeal. Lastly, don’t forget to keep your frosting at room temperature for easy spreading—cold frosting can be hard to work with.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients listed below to create this delicious cake.

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 buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

With these ingredients ready, you are set to create your moist chocolate cake masterpiece!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Both Mixes

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Carefully stir in the boiling water until smooth.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, then gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Mix well and add milk and vanilla extract until you reach a spreadable consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Serve and Enjoy

Your chocolate cake is ready to be served! Slice and enjoy the rich flavors and moist texture.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate cake with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter right before baking!

Storage Tips

To keep your chocolate cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you'd like to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. Just make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you have leftover frosting, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week as well. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container. Before using it again, bring it back to room temperature and give it a good mix to restore its original smoothness. This makes it a great option for making cake pops or as a spread for cookies if you want to get creative!

For longer-term storage, you can freeze both the cake and the frosting separately. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before using for the best results!

Serving Suggestions

This chocolate cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, offering a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. You might also consider garnishing with fresh berries or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the taste experience. These simple additions can elevate your presentation and flavor profile.

For a festive twist, consider decorating the cake with chocolate shavings or edible glitter—perfect for birthday celebrations or special occasions. Adding a drizzle of homemade chocolate ganache or caramel sauce on top can also elevate the dessert, providing an additional layer of decadence.

If you're looking to impress guests or serve at gatherings, you might bake the cake in different shaped pans, like bundt or square, and serve it on a decorative cake stand. This not only enhances its appeal but also makes cutting and serving easier. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtful presentation alongside the indulgent flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with any type of frosting you love, such as cream cheese or ganache.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.