Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream

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Chocolate cake is a classic favorite that never goes out of style, especially when it comes to birthdays. There’s something magical about the rich, velvety texture and the deep chocolate flavor that brings joy to any celebration. Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for a Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream. It’s incredibly easy to make, yet it delivers on taste and presentation, ensuring that your special day is filled with sweetness.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the richness of its flavor. It combines basic pantry ingredients to create a moist and tender cake that pairs perfectly with a luscious whipped chocolate buttercream. The fluffy frosting adds a delightful contrast to the dense cake, making each bite an indulgent treat. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be dressed up or down for any occasion.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this delicious Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream, gather the following 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 whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream (for frosting)

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Offset spatula (for frosting)

Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream. Made Stepwise

Now, let’s get started with making your Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure that the cakes release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate Boiling Water

Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this is expected and will contribute to the moistness of the cake.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Whipped Chocolate Buttercream

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined. Then add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat on high speed until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped chocolate buttercream on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining buttercream.

Step 9: Decorate and Serve

Feel free to get creative with your decorations! You can add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh fruits. Slice and serve your Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream to your eager guests.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

This cake is a wonderful base for many variations. Consider these holiday-friendly options:

• Add peppermint extract to the frosting for a festive twist.
• Incorporate seasonal fruits like raspberries or strawberries between the layers.
• Top the cake with crushed candy canes for a holiday touch.
• Use food coloring to create a fun surprise for a birthday celebration.

Mistakes That Ruin Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream

Even the best bakers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Not measuring flour accurately can lead to a dry cake. Always spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off.
• Overmixing the batter can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined.
• Skipping the cooling process can result in a messy frosting job.
• Using cold ingredients straight from the fridge can affect the texture of your cake. Let your eggs and milk come to room temperature before mixing.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is rare with such a delicious cake), here’s how to store them:

You can keep the Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will be good for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just re-whip before using.

Common Questions

Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute cake flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a lighter cake. Reduce the amount of flour slightly to avoid a dry texture.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?

Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or even coffee for a deeper flavor profile. A teaspoon of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate taste.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! You can try cream cheese frosting or even a simple vanilla buttercream. For a richer option, check out this Chocolate Buttercream Frosting.

Serve with These

To elevate your dessert experience, consider serving your Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream alongside these delicious options:

• Chocolate Mousse Brownies Or Best Brownies Ever
• Big Buttery Chocolate Chip Cookies
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
• A dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a light contrast.

Ready to Cook?

This Simple Chocolate Birthday Cake with Whipped Chocolate Buttercream is sure to impress at any gathering! Whether it’s a birthday party, an anniversary celebration, or just a special treat for yourself, this cake will bring joy and satisfaction to every occasion. Get ready to bake, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious and memorable!