Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
2 large eggs 🥚
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk 🥛
1/2 cup hot coffee ☕
For the Chocolate Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
1/4 cup buttermilk 🥛
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
Chocolate shavings 🍫
Fresh berries 🍓
Directions
Prepare the Cake:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Stir in hot coffee until the batter is smooth.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Make the Frosting:
Cream the Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
Add Cocoa and Sugar: Gradually mix in powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with buttermilk, until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Assemble the Cake:
Layer and Frost: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate: Garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries if desired.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice and serve this moist, rich chocolate cake for any occasion!
Tips for Success
Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and frosting.
Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 10–12
