Moist Rich Chocolate Cake (Printer-Friendly)

Soft, moist chocolate cake with a luscious fudge frosting that’s simple to make and irresistibly rich.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Cake Batter

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 cup brown sugar
04 - 3/4 cup dutch-processed cocoa powder
05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
06 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
09 - 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
10 - 1 cup freshly brewed coffee or 1 tablespoon espresso powder dissolved in 1 cup water
11 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
12 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

→ Chocolate Fudge Frosting

13 - 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
14 - 3 cups powdered sugar
15 - 3/4 cup cocoa powder
16 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
17 - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
18 - 2 tablespoons honey
19 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
20 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, coffee, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
04 - Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
05 - Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Tap gently to release air bubbles.
06 - Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
07 - Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
08 - Melt chocolate chips, honey, and cream in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler. Cool slightly.
09 - In a large bowl, beat butter until smooth using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
10 - Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Start on low speed, then increase to medium.
11 - Add the cooled chocolate mixture and vanilla extract. Beat until frosting is creamy and smooth.
12 - Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
13 - Repeat with remaining layers, frosting between each. Cover the top and sides with frosting.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Use room-temperature eggs and buttermilk to ensure a well-emulsified batter and optimal texture.
02 - Weigh ingredients for consistent results and even baking.
03 - Do not over-mix the batter to maintain a soft, tender crumb.