Baking & Pastry > Cakes > Butter Cakes > Chocolate Cake Recipe (Butter-Based)

Rich Dark Chocolate Butter Cake

This Rich Dark Chocolate Butter Cake is a decadent treat, perfect for chocolate lovers. With its intense chocolate flavor and moist, buttery crumb, it's sure to impress.

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
35-40 minutes
Servings
10-12
Ingredients
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup Dark Cocoa Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 1 3/4 cups Granulated Sugar
  • 3 Large Eggs
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
  • 1 cup Sour Cream
  • 1 cup Hot Coffee

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. Using a springform pan is preferable for easy removal.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, dark cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Dark cocoa powder provides a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender cake.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Sour cream adds moisture and tang to the cake.

Add Hot Coffee

Stir in the hot coffee until the batter is smooth. Hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor. Don't worry, the coffee flavor won't be prominent.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Glaze (Optional)

For an extra touch, make a simple chocolate glaze by melting chocolate chips with a little heavy cream. Pour the glaze over the cooled cake.

Serving

Serve the cake on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

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FAQ

  • Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of dark cocoa powder?

    Yes, you can use regular cocoa powder, but the cake will not have as intense of a chocolate flavor. For the best results, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder or dark cocoa powder.
  • Can I substitute yogurt for sour cream?

    Yes, plain Greek yogurt or regular yogurt can be substituted for sour cream. The texture may be slightly different, but the taste will be similar.
  • What's the best way to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

    Greasing and flouring the pan thoroughly is crucial. You can also use baking spray with flour. Alternatively, line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper.