When you want a dessert that’s rich, moist, and unapologetically chocolatey, this Dark Chocolate Cake is the one. It’s the kind of cake that stops you mid-bite. Deep, dark cocoa flavor, a tender crumb, and just the right balance of sweetness—it’s an all-time classic that always impresses. Whether it’s for birthdays, dinner parties, or “just because,” this cake delivers serious chocolate satisfaction.
There’s no fuss here—just straight-up chocolate bliss. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients, but the result is bakery-level delicious. The secret? A combination of oil and buttermilk for moisture, strong brewed coffee to deepen the cocoa flavor, and a touch of vanilla to round it out.
Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this recipe is forgiving and easy to follow. It’s mixed in one bowl with no fancy equipment needed. You don’t even need a mixer—just a whisk and some good music while you stir.
This cake is rich without being heavy, and the texture is perfect: soft, springy, and holds together beautifully. It’s versatile too—pair it with chocolate ganache, vanilla buttercream, whipped cream, or just dust it with powdered sugar and call it a day.
The coffee doesn’t make the cake taste like coffee—it just enhances the chocolate. Don’t skip it. It’s what gives the cake its intense, deep flavor. You can use decaf if needed.
This is the kind of cake people request. The one they remember. The one that disappears before you can grab seconds. And best of all? It gets even better the next day.
It works for layer cakes, sheet cakes, or cupcakes. You can dress it up or leave it rustic. It’s the black dress of the dessert world: reliable, flattering, and perfect for every occasion.
And yes, it’s indulgent—but not over the top. You get that fudge-like richness without the overwhelming density. It’s balanced. Thoughtful. Delicious in every bite.
You can easily make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and yogurt or sour cream. It adapts well and doesn’t sacrifice texture or taste.
This recipe is also a great base if you want to get creative—add a pinch of cinnamon, espresso powder, or orange zest. Fold in chocolate chips or swirl in peanut butter. Make it yours.
Whether you’re celebrating something or simply surviving the week, a slice of this cake makes everything better.
It’s cozy, comforting, and completely satisfying—everything a chocolate cake should be.
Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably dark or Dutch-processed)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot brewed coffee
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.
- Slowly pour in hot coffee, stirring constantly. Batter will be thin.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Frost as desired or dust with powdered sugar.
Tips:
- Use dark cocoa powder for deeper flavor.
- Don’t overbake—check at 30 minutes.
- Chill layers before frosting for a cleaner finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Deep, rich chocolate flavor.
- Moist and tender with a soft crumb.
- Easy to make with pantry staples.
- Perfect for any celebration (or no reason at all).
This Dark Chocolate Cake is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. Rich, moist, and easy to make, it’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that never disappoints.
