Get ready to transform an ordinary birthday into an extraordinary chocolate experience! This isn't just another cake recipe - it's a moist, decadent chocolate masterpiece that will have guests begging for seconds. Imagine a cake so rich, so perfectly balanced, that every slice feels like a celebration in itself. Whether you're marking a special occasion or simply craving the most irresistible chocolate cake, Gretch's Birthday Cake is about to become your new go-to dessert sensation!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of granulated sugar, 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk together until well blended.
- In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 2 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed with an electric mixer until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Slowly stir in 1 cup of boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is normal. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove the cakes from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, you can prepare your favorite frosting or ganache to top the cake. Chocolate buttercream or cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with this cake.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top of the first. Frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.
- Decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries if desired. Slice and serve to enjoy this delicious Gretch's Chocolate Birthday Cake!
Tips
- • Always use room temperature eggs and milk for smoother batter integration • Don't overmix the batter - this can lead to a tough, dense cake • The boiling water might seem strange, but it's the secret to an incredibly moist texture • Use high-quality cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor • Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting • For extra richness, brush cake layers with simple syrup before frosting • Use a serrated knife to level cake layers for a professional-looking finish • Store cake in an airtight container to maintain moisture • For best results, serve at room temperature
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg
