Classic Chocolate Cake With Buttercream

Name: Classic Chocolate Cake With Buttercream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ 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; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ⅓ cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Dessert Time

When I think of the ultimate dessert, a classic chocolate cake with buttercream comes to mind. Rich and decadent, this cake never fails to impress at celebrations or cozy family gatherings. The moist chocolate layers, paired with fluffy buttercream, create an indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion. Every bite is a sweet reminder of the joy that baking brings, and I love how every step allows me to pour my creativity into something delicious.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:29:35.492Z

Baking this classic chocolate cake took me back to my childhood, where I would eagerly watch as my grandmother crafted her beloved desserts. The method I’ve adopted combines high-quality cocoa and buttermilk, which gives the cake a rich flavor and moist texture. I added an extra layer of buttercream for a perfect balance of sweetness, ensuring that every slice is a delightful experience that can be shared with loved ones.

While making the buttercream, I learned that the trick to achieving the right consistency is to beat the butter until it's light and fluffy before adding the sugar. This has made the frosting incredibly creamy and easy to spread. It’s these little details that elevate the cake from good to absolutely spectacular!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Rich chocolate flavor balanced by smooth buttercream
Perfectly moist texture that's hard to resist
Easy to customize with different flavor add-ins

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this classic chocolate cake plays a vital role in achieving the rich flavor and moist texture. The combination of all-purpose flour and granulated sugar contributes to structure and sweetness, while unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for that deep chocolate taste. Buttermilk adds acidity, which activates the baking soda and powder for a fluffy rise. If you can’t find buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice—let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.

Butter is the star of the buttercream frosting. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in your frosting, ensuring that the sweetness from the powdered sugar can shine. When beating the butter, aim for a consistency that’s creamy and pale—about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air into the butter, giving your frosting that light, spreadable texture. Also, using heavy cream instead of milk makes the frosting richer and more stable.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking the chocolate cake, it's important to keep an eye on the oven's temperatures. An oven thermometer can help verify that it’s accurate, as even a small discrepancy can lead to uneven baking. The cakes are done when they spring back when lightly pressed and a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick comes out wet, give it another 2-3 minutes. Avoid over-baking, as this can result in a dry cake.

Cooling the cakes properly is just as vital—always let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes first before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy or breaking apart and allows steam to escape. Once cooled completely, you can level the tops with a serrated knife to ensure a flat surface for frosting. This will help with an even finish and avoid any lopsided cake layers.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a mouthwatering classic chocolate cake:

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ 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

For the Buttercream Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
⅓ cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part: baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your classic chocolate cake:

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, then stir in the boiling water.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Prepare the Buttercream

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of buttercream on top, then add the second layer and frost the top and sides.

Decorate and Serve

Feel free to add chocolate shavings or sprinkles for decoration. Slice and enjoy your delicious cake!

Enjoy this classic cake with family and friends, great for any occasion!

Pro Tips

For an extra chocolate kick, add chocolate chips to the batter before baking. Additionally, letting the cake sit overnight can enhance the flavors even more!

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This chocolate cake can be made ahead of time and stored, which is perfect for planning gatherings. After baking, let the cakes cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. If freezing, consider placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and ensure safe defrosting. When you’re ready to serve, allow the cake to reach room temperature before frosting it for the best texture and flavor.

The buttercream frosting can also be made in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using, let it sit at room temperature to soften, and re-whip it for a creamy consistency. This allows you to simplify prep on the day of your celebration while still enjoying a fresh-tasting dessert.

Creative Variations and Customizations

Feel free to play with different flavor add-ins to create your signature chocolate cake. For instance, mixing in a cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts can enhance the texture and add an exciting surprise. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, such as peppermint or orange, along with the vanilla to create a unique buttercream frosting. Remember that changes to the recipe might require slight adjustments in baking time or ingredient ratios, so keep a close eye on the cake while it bakes.

For a richer chocolate experience, consider adding a layer of ganache between the cake layers. To make a simple ganache, heat equal parts of heavy cream and chocolate until melted and smooth. It can be layered with buttercream or used to glaze the top, adding an extra level of decadence. Just remember to let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the cake to achieve the perfect glossy finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or ganache work wonderfully with this chocolate cake.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the layers ahead of time and freeze them. Just ensure they’re wrapped well.

→ What can I add for flavor variations?

Consider adding espresso powder for a mocha flavor or mint extract for a fresh twist!