Moist Chocolate Cake With Cocoa Powder

Name: Moist Chocolate Cake With Cocoa Powder
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I absolutely love baking, especially when it involves rich chocolate! This Moist Chocolate Cake with Cocoa Powder has quickly become a household favorite. From the moment I tested this recipe, I knew I had struck chocolate heaven. The trick lies in using quality cocoa powder and being gentle when mixing the batter. The result is a tender, moist cake that guarantees to impress any chocolate lover. With just the right balance of sweetness and depth of flavor, it’s perfect for gatherings or simply satisfying a sweet tooth anytime.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:56:36.546Z

When I first set out to make this cake, I knew I wanted something that felt indulgent but was still simple enough for a weeknight dessert. The method I honed involved letting the wet ingredients meld together first, ensuring that flavors were thoroughly combined. This simple step makes a notable difference in the taste of the cake.

Another tip I discovered is to make sure you don’t overmix the batter. Gently incorporating dry ingredients into the wet ones leads to a fluffy cake with a beautiful crumb. It’s all about treating the ingredients with love — just like how I treat my friends and family when I bake!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies every craving
Perfectly moist texture that keeps well for days
Versatile for any occasion, from birthdays to everyday treats

      

Mastering the Chocolate Flavor

The key to a deeply flavored chocolate cake lies in the cocoa powder you choose. Opt for high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa for a smooth, rich taste that elevates the chocolate profiles. This cocoa not only contributes to the cake's delectable depth but also improves the richness of the crumb. When measuring cocoa powder, ensure you spoon it into the measuring cup rather than scooping to avoid compacting it, which could lead to an overly dense cake.

Additionally, the balance between sugar and cocoa is crucial. The sweetness in the granulated sugar complements the slight bitterness of the cocoa, creating a harmonious flavor. If you're looking for a less sweet version, consider reducing the sugar by 1/2 cup. However, keep in mind this may alter the moisture slightly, so retain some of the cake's original ingredients to ensure the ideal texture.

Mixing for Perfection

Mixing the batter correctly is vital for achieving that tender crumb. Start by thoroughly mixing the dry ingredients, ensuring there are no clumps of cocoa or baking soda left behind. This helps the leavening agents distribute evenly throughout the batter, contributing to the cake’s rise. When combining the wet and dry mixtures, mix just until combined. Over-mixing can incorporate too much air and lead to a tough cake instead of the desired soft texture.

Adding the boiling water towards the end of mixing may seem unconventional, but it activates the cocoa and ensures the cake stays moist and delicate. The batter will appear thin, which might be concerning at first, but this is precisely what makes the cake incredibly moist. Always trust the process; if it feels too runny, remember that moisture is your friend in this recipe.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes.

Add Boiling Water

Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin; this is what creates the moist texture.

Bake the Cakes

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

Cool and Serve

Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost as desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider using a chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting for layering and decoration. It elevates the cake's flavor profile wonderfully.

Storing and Freezing Tips

This chocolate cake can be stored at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, consider refrigerating it. However, this might make the texture slightly denser. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, and when you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature before frosting.

If you choose to freeze the frosted cake, be aware that the texture of the frosting may change once thawed. It’s best to frost the cake right before serving. Just make sure the cake is completely cool before applying the frosting, as warm cake can cause melting and runny frosting.

Serving Suggestions

This cake shines on its own, but for an extra touch of decadence, serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries can add a refreshing contrast, enhancing the rich chocolate flavor. Consider drizzling a warm chocolate ganache over the top or between layers for an enriched experience that will impress your guests.

For special occasions, you can get creative with decorations. Use chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or even edible glitter to elevate your cake's presentation. Customized toppings, like flavored whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar, can transform a simple chocolate cake into a showstopper, making it ideal for everything from birthday parties to festive gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate cocoa powder?

Yes, you can substitute dark cocoa powder for a deeper flavor, just be aware that it might slightly alter the sweetness.

→ What if I don't have whole milk?

You can substitute with buttermilk or a non-dairy milk, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How do I store the cake?

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

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.