Name: Devil’s Food Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-485879H51M1S
Total time: PT-485879H51M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (100g) dark brown sugar; 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk; 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup (120ml) boiling water; 4 oz (115g) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped; 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar; 1/4 cup (60ml) milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers a cake that is both decadent and moist, thanks to the combination of cocoa powder, bittersweet chocolate, and buttermilk. The use of both butter and oil ensures a tender crumb, while the chocolate buttercream frosting adds a luscious finish. It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require advanced baking skills, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Ingredients

For the cake:

1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100g) dark brown sugar
1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120ml) boiling water
4 oz (115g) bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped

For the frosting:

1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
1/4 cup (60ml) milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped bittersweet chocolate and cocoa powder. Pour in the boiling water and stir until smooth. Let it cool to room temperature.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
Stir in the cooled chocolate mixture until the batter is smooth.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
For the frosting, sift the cocoa powder to remove any lumps.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add the sifted cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12–16 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

Mocha Flavor: Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the boiling water in the cake batter for a subtle coffee flavor that enhances the chocolate.
Spiced Cake: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced twist.
Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.
Frosting Variation: Substitute the chocolate buttercream with a cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast to the rich cake.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you prefer, refrigerate the cake to extend freshness; bring to room temperature before serving for optimal taste and texture.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent my Devil’s Food Cake from sinking in the middle?

Ensure that your oven is fully preheated before baking and avoid opening the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking to maintain a consistent temperature.

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the frosting?

Yes, you can use semisweet or milk chocolate for a sweeter frosting. Just be aware that it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk in the cake?

Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness to the cake. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature. Frost the cake just before serving.

How can I make the frosting fluffier?

Beat the frosting for an additional 2–3 minutes after all ingredients are combined to incorporate more air, resulting in a lighter texture.

Can I use a different pan size?

Yes, you can use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Adjust the baking time to 35–40 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

How do I frost a layered cake neatly?

Use an offset spatula to apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) first, refrigerate for 30 minutes, then apply the final coat of frosting for a smooth finish.

Can I add fruit to the cake?

Yes, fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries can be added between the cake layers or as a garnish on top for added flavor and decoration.

What can I serve with this cake?

A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with this rich cake.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.

Conclusion

This Devil’s Food Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Buttercream Frosting is a timeless dessert that combines rich flavors and a moist texture, making it a perfect choice for any chocolate enthusiast. Its straightforward preparation and delicious outcome ensure it will be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

Devil’s Food Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Buttercream Frosting