Description
This classic chocolate cake recipe offers a rich, moist, and tender cake layered with creamy chocolate frosting. Made with a blend of cocoa powder, sour cream, and melted chocolate, it yields a decadent dessert perfect for celebrations and gatherings. The cake layers are baked to perfection and generously frosted for a luscious finish.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3 cups packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup baking cocoa
- 3 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1-1/3 cups sour cream
- 1-1/3 cups boiling water
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, cubed
- 3 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
- 3 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 5 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep the pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round baking pans to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Make the cake batter: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about five to seven minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking cocoa, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the sour cream, beating well after each addition. Stir in the boiling water until fully blended. For best texture, sift the flour mixture before adding.
- Bake the cake layers: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans, either by weighing or by measuring cups. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely to room temperature.
- Whip up the frosting: In a metal bowl set over simmering water, melt the butter and both chocolates together, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Add the chocolate mixture and beat until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the cake: If cake layers are domed, level them off with a serrated knife for even layers. Place the first cake layer on a cake plate or turntable with a dab of frosting underneath to secure it. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the second layer and frosting, then place the third layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it over the top and sides. Garnish as desired.
- Cut and serve: Your cake is ready to serve. To slice like a pro, cut the cake carefully to ensure neat pieces. Enjoy your rich, chocolatey masterpiece!
Notes
- Sifting flour aerates it and removes lumps, improving cake texture.
- Dividing batter by weight ensures even layers but measuring by cups is acceptable.
- Level domed cake layers with a serrated knife for a neat finish.
- Use an offset spatula for smooth frosting application.
- Store cake in a cool place or refrigerate, covered, to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
