Chocolate Buttermilk Cake

Rich, Moist & Deeply Chocolatey

This Chocolate Buttermilk Cake is a classic layer cake with a modern twist—velvety moist texture, deep chocolate flavor, and a hint of tang from real buttermilk. Paired with a silky chocolate buttercream frosting, this cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you need a rich chocolate fix.

A timeless favorite that’s easy to make and impossible to resist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• 🧈 Buttermilk Magic: Adds moisture and tenderness without making the cake heavy.
• 🍫 Double Chocolate Flavor: Cocoa in both the cake and frosting gives a deep, decadent taste.
• 🥣 Light Crumb, Strong Flavor: The addition of hot water keeps the cake soft and fudgy inside.
• ⏱️ Simple Mixing Method: No fancy tools required—just mix and pour.
• 🎉 Crowd-Pleasing Classic: Great for celebrations, potlucks, or as a weekend baking project.

Ingredients (Makes 12–16 servings):

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (not Dutch-processed)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk , at room temperature
• ½ cup vegetable oil (can also use melted coconut oil or canola)
• 2 large eggs , at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter , softened
• 3½ cups powdered sugar , sifted
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for rich chocolate flavor)
• ½ cup buttermilk , at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (about ⅛ tsp – enhances sweetness)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .

Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Set aside while mixing the batter.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, whisk together:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Mix well to evenly combine all dry ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together:

• Buttermilk
• Oil
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

Whisk until fully blended and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients.

Beat on medium speed (or by hand) until just combined.

Carefully stir in the hot water slowly—it will thin the batter significantly.

The final batter should be smooth and slightly thin, but don’t worry—it bakes up perfectly!

Step 5: Bake Until Moist

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes , then carefully remove and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

In a large bowl, beat softened butter until light and fluffy.

Gradually add powdered sugar , alternating with spoonfuls of:

• Cocoa powder
• Buttermilk
• Vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Beat on high speed until smooth and spreadable—add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost & Decorate

Once cakes are fully cooled, frost the top of one layer and stack the second on top.

Spread a generous layer of frosting over the entire cake—smooth sides or create swirls with an offset spatula or piping bag.

Optional: Add crushed candy canes , sprinkles, or shavings of dark chocolate for extra flair.

Step 8: Slice & Serve

Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Store leftovers covered at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Tips for Success:

• 🧁 Room-Temperature Ingredients: Eggs, buttermilk, and butter should all be at room temp for best blending.
• 🧊 Chill Before Frosting: Ensures clean layers and prevents melting the frosting.
• 🍫 Use Real Cocoa: Natural unsweetened cocoa gives the richest chocolate flavor.
• 🌡️ Don’t Overmix: Mix only until just combined to avoid dense texture.
• ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Wrap cooled cake layers tightly and freeze—thaw and frost when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or red wine for dessert lovers.
• Perfect at birthdays, family dinners, or holiday gatherings.
• Ideal with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for double chocolate indulgence.

Nutritional Information (per slice, makes 12 servings – without optional toppings):

(Approximate values per serving)

• Calories: ~550 kcal
• Protein: ~6g
• Carbohydrates: ~75g
• Fat: ~25g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sugar: ~55g

This Chocolate Buttermilk Cake is a true celebration of everything chocolate lovers crave—rich, moist layers with a velvety buttercream finish. With its tender crumb and deep cocoa flavor—it’s a must-have dessert for any chocolate lover.

So go ahead and make this today… because once you take a bite—you’ll be hooked!