Let me take you to the true comfort baking experience— where the smell of chocolate cake billowing through the house feels like a big hug. This Easy Chocolate Cake is a moist and decadent chocolate cake and is topped off with a silky-smooth vanilla frosting that you would swear just melts in your mouth. It is truly one of those desserts that bring people together, whether it's for a birthday celebration, family dinner, or Tuesday night...who cares?
This recipe is a total gem. It's not just any old chocolate cake, it's an easy chocolate cake. No complicated techniques, no hard to find ingredients, no stress. Just pure joy in every bite. The secret? The perfect combination of rich cocoa, buttery goodness and a hint of vanilla bringing it all together.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. You won't need to be a professional baker to conquer it. This cake can be made by professionals and amateurs alike, and it will come out perfect each time. The same goes for the vanilla frosting - it’s creamy and dreamy and a perfect balance to the richness of the chocolate cake flavor.
But here’s the best part: this cake is so adaptable! You can make it for whomever - holidays, birthdays, or just for fun. All will enjoy it, animatedly! Kids will love seconds, adults will want seconds... even your pickiest uncle who says he hates dessert will have a piece and claim it is the best cake ever!!
So, find your apron, preheat your oven, and let's get baking! This easy vanilla cake with chocolate frosting is going to be your easy baking recipe! You will be wondering how you ever went without it!
Why You Need to Make this Quick Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Frosting
This recipe is fabulous for many reasons. First, it is ridiculously easy to make. No special skills or gadgets needed—just a bowl, a whisk, and a little lovin'! Second, the ingredients are simple and inexpensive, and you probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry anyways!
This cake itself is moist, rich, and chocolatey, thanks to cocoa powder! The frosting is smooth, creamy, and just sweet enough to compliment the chocolate flavor.
What I think makes this recipe stand out is how versatile it is. You can jazz it up with sprinkles, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of caramel for some extra fancy. Or you can keep it simple and let the flavors speak for themselves!
Lastly, this cake is delicious! It is a dessert that brings people together and puts a smile on their faces. Whether you are getting together with friends, family, or just baking for yourself, this moist, simple chocolate cake with vanilla frosting is sure to delight.
A Family Favorite: The Story Behind the Recipe
This recipe is very dear to me. I began one rainy Sunday with my husband commenting that he wished he had chocolate cake. I have never been one to turn-down a baking opportunity, so I got to work.
Now, who would have thought that it would turn out so good, and now it is a staple in our home! My husband claims it's the best chocolate cake he has EVER had and our kids really love it. This cake has become our "go to" dessert for birthdays, holidays, and even just because.
One of my favorite moments, was baking this cake with my daughter. She loves to help mix the batter and lick the spoon, of course. It has become such a wonderful memory for both of us and I love having that special time with her in the kitchen.
This cake has also been a crowd-pleaser at potluck dinners and family get-togethers. The guests devour it and it's the first dessert to disappear from the table, and everyone asks for the recipe. This just reinforces how easy, delicious, universal and loved this cake is.
Why This Easy Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Frosting
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, it's so easy. You don't need any special skills or equipment, just a bowl, a whisk and a little bit of love. Second, the ingredients are simple and inexpensive; you probably have most of them in your pantry.
The cake itself is moist, rich, and perfectly chocolatey, thanks to a generous amount of cocoa powder. The vanilla frosting is the icing on the cake—literally. It’s creamy, smooth, and just sweet enough to perfectly offset the intensely dark chocolate flavor.
Here’s what distinguishes this recipe from every other chocolate cake and vanilla frosting recipe. It’s versatile! You can add sprinkles, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce to make it special. But you can also keep it simple and let the flavors do the talking.
Last, but certainly not least, this cake is fun! It conjures that classic dessert atmosphere where everyone is sitting at the table with bright smiles on their faces, and a big piece of cake on their plates. For whoever you’re baking this for, family or friends, or simply about yourself, this easy chocolate cake with vanilla frosting is sure to please.
Helpful Hints For Easy Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Frosting
Don't overmix the batter. Over mixing the batter can produce a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
Use room temperature ingredients. This allows for a smoothly mixed batter and even baking.
Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This will prevent the frosting of melting.
Substitutions and Variations
Gluten free : Instead of using all-purpose flour, use a gluten free flour blend.
Dairy free: Instead of using normal milk, use almond milk and use vegan butter for the frosting instead of butter.
Add-ins: You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor.
Make A Healthier Version
Instead of using all-purpose flour, use whole wheat flour.
Instead of sugar, use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Instead of oil, use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
Wrapping Up For Easy Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Frosting
There you have it. A super easy, super delicious, and de-risked recipe for easy chocolate cake with vanilla frosting. Please let us know how your dish turned out, and check out some of our other recipes as well!
Indulge in the rich decadence of a homemade Chocolate Cake that will satisfy your sweet cravings. This recipe guarantees a moist and fluffy cake with a deep cocoa flavor, perfect for any occasion or simply as a delightful treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1½ tsp baking powder
1½ tsp baking soda
1tsp salt
2large eggs
1cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2tsp vanilla extract
1cup boiling water
For the Frosting:
1cup unsalted butter, softened
4cups powdered sugar
2tbsp 2-3 whole milk
2tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Carefully stir in the boiling water—the batter will be thin, but that’s okay.
3
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
4
For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Spread the frosting between the cake layers and over the top and sides.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 12
Amount Per Serving
Calories6145.25kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat236.15g364%
Saturated Fat133.69g669%
Cholesterol892.93mg298%
Sodium5259.67mg220%
Potassium1860.27mg54%
Total Carbohydrate999.8g334%
Dietary Fiber29.78g120%
Sugars786.37g
Protein58.77g118%
Vitamin A 6656.61 IU
Calcium 986.5 mg
Iron 22.15 mg
Vitamin D 8.42 mcg
Vitamin E 8.43 mg
Vitamin K 59.37 mcg
Thiamin 1.97 mg
Riboflavin 2.31 mg
Niacin 14.85 mg
Vitamin B6 0.52 mg
Folate 474.76 mcg
Vitamin B12 2.76 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 3.93 mg
Phosphorus 1391.09 mg
Magnesium 425.7 mg
Zinc 8.67 mg
Selenium 126.27 mcg
Copper 2.98 mg
Manganese 4.09 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Keywords:
Chocolate, Cake, Dessert, Baking, Cocoa
Did you make this recipe?
Pin this recipe to share with your friends and followers.
Emma
Food and Lifestyle Blogger
Hello! I’m Emma, the food lover and home chef behind Cuts Food. My passion for cooking started with simple, hearty meals shared around the family table. At Cuts Food, I bring you tried-and-true recipes, kitchen tips, and a love for flavors that inspire.