Craving a decadent chocolate cake that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery, but want the simplicity of a box mix? Get ready to wow your family and friends with this foolproof chocolate cake recipe that transforms a simple cake mix into a showstopping dessert! Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees a moist, rich chocolate cake that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup chocolate frosting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer on medium speed and blend the ingredients for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Ensure that all ingredients are well incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to mix completely.
- Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it into a uniform layer.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28-32 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the chocolate frosting evenly across the top using an offset spatula or butter knife.
- Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or additional decorative elements as desired.
- Slice into 8 equal servings and serve at room temperature. The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for 3-4 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for a smoother, more consistent batter.
- Don't Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and light.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Use the toothpick test, but remove the cake when a few moist crumbs still cling to the toothpick to prevent dryness.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Frosting Hack: For a professional look, use an offset spatula and create smooth, even strokes when spreading the chocolate frosting.
- Storage Tip: Keep the cake covered at room temperature to maintain moisture and freshness.
- Customize Your Cake: Experiment with different garnishes like chocolate shavings, nuts, or colorful sprinkles to make it your own.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 396kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
