Delight your taste buds with this irresistible vanilla chocolate cake that combines the best of both worlds. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress with its moist texture and rich flavors.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of vanilla and chocolate offers a perfect balance of flavors, appealing to a wide range of palates.
- Using buttermilk in the batter ensures the cake is incredibly moist and tender.
- The step-by-step instructions guarantee even beginner bakers can achieve professional results.
- Incorporating both cocoa powder and melted chocolate intensifies the chocolate flavor without overpowering the vanilla.
- The recipe includes tips for customization, making it versatile for various dietary needs and preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pans (2)
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your cakes won’t stick and will come out perfectly shaped.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting not only combines the ingredients but also aerates the flour, leading to a lighter cake texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stop as soon as you no longer see dry flour.
Add Boiling Water and Chocolate
Carefully stir in the boiling water and melted chocolate. The batter will be thin, but this is normal. The hot water helps to bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing the chocolate flavor.
Bake and Cool
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared 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 to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more moist cake, you can substitute the boiling water with hot coffee, which will deepen the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste. If you’re out of buttermilk, make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. To ensure your cakes bake evenly, rotate the pans halfway through the baking time. For a professional finish, level your cakes with a serrated knife before frosting.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and a dairy-free chocolate alternative.
- Add-Ins: Stir in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
- Frosting: Try a cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast to the sweet cake.
- Layers: Add a layer of raspberry jam between the cakes for a fruity twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be baked up to two days in advance. Just wrap the cooled cakes tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Frost the day you plan to serve for the best texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap the unfrosted cakes tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
Summary
This vanilla chocolate cake is a foolproof recipe that delivers moist, flavorful layers every time. With options for customization and make-ahead convenience, it’s perfect for any celebration or just because.
