Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

Prepare Chocolate Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. 2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. 3. In another large bowl, beat the egg with sugar and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the vegetable oil or melted butter, and mix well. 4. Alternately mix in the dry ingredients and milk into the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is smooth. 5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make Chocolate Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat softened butter until smooth. Add cocoa powder and mix until well incorporated. 2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add milk or cream as needed to reach a spreadable consistency. 3. Beat the frosting until light and fluffy, adjusting with more powdered sugar or milk as needed.

Assemble the Cake

1. If the cakes have domed on top, trim them off with a knife to create flat layers. 2. Place one layer of cake on your serving plate. Spread a layer of chocolate frosting over the top. Add the second layer and apply frosting to the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.