One-Bowl Chocolate Cake

One-Bowl Chocolate Cake

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup baking cocoa
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs

    room temperature, lightly beaten

  • 1 cup canola oil
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup hot water
  • Frosting of your choice
  • Colored sprinkles

    optional

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°. Grease a 13x9-in. baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk the first 6 ingredients. Stir in eggs, oil and buttermilk. Add water; stir until combined.

  2. 2

    Transfer batter to prepared pan. Bake 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack. Frost cake. If desired, decorate with sprinkles.

One-Bowl Chocolate Cake

One-Bowl Chocolate Cake

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About this Recipe

Craving a rich, deeply satisfying chocolate cake without a mountain of dirty dishes? This One-Bowl Chocolate Cake promises classic flavor with remarkable ease, perfect for any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.

The beauty of a one-bowl method lies in its simplicity, streamlining your baking process for a decadent dessert that comes together quickly. This recipe combines pantry staples like all-purpose flour, sugar, and baking cocoa with key wet ingredients to create a harmonious batter. The thoughtful balance of leavening agents—both baking soda and baking powder—ensures a wonderfully tender crumb, while room temperature eggs contribute to a smooth, well-emulsified mixture.

Prepare for a slice of pure comfort. This chocolate cake delivers a moist, tender crumb with a deep, robust chocolate flavor that’s not overly sweet. The presence of canola oil helps keep the cake wonderfully soft, while buttermilk adds a subtle tang and contributes to its exceptional texture and richness. You'll find it an approachable bake that yields a consistently delicious result, ready to be adorned with your favorite frosting and, if desired, a festive scattering of colored sprinkles. It’s the kind of reliable chocolate cake that will become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire.

Customization & Variations

Make this cake truly your own by experimenting with different frostings; a classic chocolate buttercream, a tangy cream cheese frosting, or a simple ganache would all be superb choices. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the hot water to deepen the chocolate notes. While not listed, a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts could be gently folded into the batter for added texture.

This versatile One-Bowl Chocolate Cake is perfect for birthday celebrations, quiet weeknight desserts, or bringing to a potluck. Serve it simply with a dusting of cocoa powder or elevate it with your chosen frosting and a cheerful pop of colored sprinkles.

Frequently Asked Questions