Introduction

This Super Moist Chocolate Cake is a luscious and easy-to-make treat perfect for any chocolate lover. With a rich, tender crumb and creamy chocolate frosting, it will quickly become a family favorite.

A single square piece of chocolate cake sits on a white plate, placed on a wooden surface with a white marbled texture in the background. The cake has two layers: a bottom dark chocolate layer with a dense, moist texture and a top layer of smooth, glossy chocolate frosting that covers the entire top surface evenly. The edges of the cake are clean and sharp, showing the contrast between the textured bottom and the creamy, shiny top layer. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cocoa powder
¾ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 large egg, room temperature
½ cup whole milk, room temperature
¼ cup vegetable oil
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ cup boiling water
¼ cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
1 ¼ cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
3 tbsp whole milk, room temperature (for frosting)
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
½ tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
Pinch of salt (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, or grease it with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Add the egg, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for 1-2 minutes, scraping the bowl sides and bottom as needed to fully incorporate all ingredients.
Step 4: Pour the boiling water into the batter and beat on low speed until just combined. The batter will be thin. Pour it into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Step 5: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a rack for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
Step 7: To make the frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the cocoa powder until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and add the milk, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 8: Spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into 9 or 16 squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, substitute half the milk with sour cream or yogurt.
Use brewed coffee instead of boiling water to deepen the chocolate flavor.
Add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for texture.
For a dairy-free option, replace milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Storage

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving. The frosted cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bring to room temperature.

How to Serve

A thick square piece of chocolate cake sits in the center of a white plate, placed on a wooden surface. The cake has two layers: the bottom layer is a dense, dark chocolate base with a smooth texture, and the top layer is a lighter, moist chocolate sponge. The top is coated evenly with a glossy, dark chocolate frosting that looks smooth and slightly creamy. In the background, there is a soft blur of light colors, including white and light blue, adding a calm feel to the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use cocoa powder instead of melted chocolate in the frosting?

Yes, this recipe uses unsweetened cocoa powder to create a smooth and rich frosting without the need for melted chocolate.

Why is the batter so thin after adding boiling water?

The boiling water helps to bloom the cocoa powder and creates a lighter, moist crumb. A thin batter is expected and will bake into a moist cake.