Ingredients:
Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅔ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅔ cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup hot coffee
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 12 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 5-6 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
- Cake Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Sift in the cocoa powder and mix until combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Incorporate the eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
- Combine with Coffee:
- Gently mix in the hot coffee until the batter is smooth without any flour lumps.
- Bake:
- Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared cake pans. Use cake strips for even baking if available. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool the cakes completely before frosting.
- Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Add in the cream cheese and continue to mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, half at a time, to avoid a sugar dust cloud. Season with salt and vanilla, mixing until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place a small dollop of frosting on your cake plate or stand to anchor the cake. Set the first layer on top.
- Spread one-third of the frosting over the first layer. Place the second cake layer on top and use the remaining frosting to cover the cake. Create decorative waves with an offset spatula.
Notes:
- Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and cream cheese, are at room temperature for a smooth batter and frosting.
- Use high-fat content cream cheese for a stable frosting.
- Check the freshness of baking powder and baking soda for optimal rise.
- Measure flour correctly using the spoon-and-level method.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and moist.
- Lining your pans with parchment ensures easy removal after baking.
- Cool the cakes thoroughly before frosting to maintain the frosting’s structure and prevent cake breakage.
This chocolate cake is a luscious treat, complete with a rich, velvety cream cheese frosting – perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
