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 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water

Highlighted under: Daily Recipes

I absolutely love baking, and this Moist Chocolate Cake is a delightful representation of that passion. The rich chocolate flavor combined with cocoa powder results in a moist and fudgy texture that’s hard to resist. I enjoy making this cake for gatherings, and it never fails to impress my friends and family. The best part is how simple the ingredients are, making it easy to whip up on a whim. Follow along as I share my favorite go-to recipe that turns out perfectly every time.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:43:34.328Z

When I first experimented with this Moist Chocolate Cake recipe, I was astonished by how a few simple adjustments could elevate the flavor. By using cocoa powder instead of regular baking chocolate, I found it much easier to achieve deep, rich chocolate tones. Plus, the addition of buttermilk adds just the right amount of tang while ensuring a moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

One specific tip I learned is not to overmix the batter. Mixing just until combined helps retain air and moisture, which is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. Trust me, your guests will be begging for the recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor with the perfect moisture level
Easy to make with straightforward ingredients
Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to everyday treats

Understanding Key Ingredients

The cornerstone of this Moist Chocolate Cake is the cocoa powder. Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa for a richer flavor. It enhances the cake's chocolate intensity while also contributing to its dark color. By sifting the cocoa powder with the dry ingredients, you ensure there are no lumps and that the cocoa is evenly distributed throughout the batter, which is essential for a consistent flavor in every bite.

Another vital component is buttermilk. It not only adds a delightful tang but also reacts with the baking soda and baking powder to create a lighter texture. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, a quick substitute can be made by mixing one cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in your recipe.

Baking Techniques for Success

When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be mindful to mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake due to gluten development, so a few lumps are okay. Watch for large, dry spots and incorporate them gently with a spatula instead of whisking vigorously. This will help maintain the cake's light and moist texture that we all love.

The addition of boiling water to your batter might seem unusual, but it serves an important purpose. This step helps bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing its flavor and moistening the batter. The resulting batter will be thinner than most, which can be a bit intimidating, but it will bake up beautifully and surprisingly moist—just trust the process!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Moist Chocolate Cake:

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Moist Chocolate Cake:

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Boiling Water

Stir in boiling water carefully. The batter will be thin, which is normal.

Pour and Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Your Moist Chocolate Cake is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.

Storing and Freezing Tips

To store your Moist Chocolate Cake, make sure it's completely cooled before wrapping it in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. This prevents the cake from becoming soggy. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Cut the cake into slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe container. It can maintain its quality for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you're short on time, you can microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth. Just be careful not to overheat, as the cake can dry out!

Serving Suggestions

For an indulgent touch, serve your Moist Chocolate Cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of chocolate ganache or warm fudge sauce can elevate the dessert experience even more. If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing it with fresh berries; their tartness complements the richness of the chocolate perfectly.

Consider transforming this cake into a layered creation by slicing it in half horizontally and adding your favorite filling, like raspberry jam or a cream cheese frosting. This not only adds flavor but also visually transforms the cake, making it stunning for special occasions or celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder?

Yes, dark cocoa powder can add a deeper flavor to the cake, but it may also alter the sweetness.

→ How do I store the cake after baking?

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

→ Can this recipe be doubled for a larger cake?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use larger pans, adjusting the baking time as needed.

→ What frosting pairs well with this cake?

A cream cheese frosting or basic chocolate ganache complements the rich flavors of the cake beautifully.