Best One Layer Chocolate Cake Recipe (Great for kids!)

This one layer moist chocolate cake recipe offers an uncomplicated, kid-friendly approach to baking. This easy-to-follow recipe, using readily available ingredients, results in a rich cake with a moist crumb, complemented by a simple chocolate buttercream frosting. It’s a practical and enjoyable option for family baking, casual celebrations, or whenever those chocolate cravings strike.

If you’re a fan of chocolate cake – and let’s be honest, who isn’t? – you’re in for a treat. This one layer chocolate cake recipe is not only delicious but also straightforward, making it an easy chocolate cake recipe for kids. It offers a wonderful opportunity for your little ones to get in the kitchen, learn a few things about baking, and have fun in the process. This cake recipe is truly the best cake! Plus, it’s a single layer cake, so there is no need to worry about stacking cake layers or any fancy decorating.

Why This Recipe Works

You might be wondering: why this particular chocolate cake recipe? Why not a fancy triple-layer cake with glossy ganache or intricate frosting designs? Here’s why you’ll love this one layer chocolate cake:

1. Simplicity: A multi-layer cake can be quite a production, especially for the little ones or anyone new to baking. This one layer cake, on the other hand, is straightforward and relatively quick to prepare. It’s all about ease and enjoyment without compromising the end result – a rich, moist, and delicious chocolate cake.
2. Fewer Ingredients: This recipe calls for simple ingredients. It’s likely you already have everything you need in your kitchen, making it an easy spur-of-the-moment baking adventure.
3. Easy to Make: This is a one bowl chocolate cake recipe, which means that there is minimal clean up and equipment involved!
4. Kid-friendly: The steps are easy to follow and safe for children under adult supervision, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
5. Versatile: This delicious dessert makes a great birthday cake and is perfect for special occasions.

Ingredient Notes

So, what do you need to make this delicious cake? Here’s a breakdown of the necessary ingredients – check out the full recipe for ingredient measurements. 

• All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your cake, providing structure.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: For the all-important chocolate flavor.
• Sugar: To add the essential sweetness. This recipe calls for granulated and brown sugar. The brown sugar adds extra moistness to the cake.
• Baking powder and baking soda: To help your cake rise.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the other flavors and cuts through the sweetness.
• Eggs: Vital for the cake’s structure and moisture.
• Milk: Helps achieve a soft and tender cake.
• Vegetable oil: Another key player in ensuring your cake doesn’t dry out.
• Vanilla extract: Make sure you use real vanilla extract for the best results.
• Espresso powder: Gives the cake a deep chocolate flavor (optional).

Step-by-Step Directions

One of the best things about this homemade chocolate cake recipe is how straightforward the process is. Here is this easy recipe, broken down into simple steps:

1. Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grease and line a 8-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the ‘wet’ ingredients: eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
3. Dry Ingredients: Then, add in the sugars, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder (if using). Mix well until they’re just combined. Remember, overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so once you can’t see any raw flour or large lumps, it’s time to stop.
4. Baking: Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
5. Cooling: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Frost: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the chocolate frosting over the top of the cake.

Chocolate Frosting

As delicious as our one-bowl chocolate cake is on its own, topping it with a fluffy, rich chocolate buttercream frosting truly makes this the best chocolate cake recipe. The addition of frosting make this classic chocolate cake ideal for birthday parties and special occasions.

Chocolate Buttercream Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter
• Dark Chocolate
• Cocoa Powder
• Powdered Sugar
• Salt
• Vanilla Extract
• Milk
• Heavy cream

How to Make Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter until it’s creamy and lightened in color.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Beat on low until everything is incorporated. (the mixture may look dry/lumpy at this point)
3. Then, add the melted chocolate, vanilla extract, and milk. Increase the speed to medium and beat it for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Finally add the heavy cream and beat until it’s light and fluffy.
5. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting on top using a spatula or a butter knife to spread it evenly.

Tips for a Perfect Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature before starting. It should be soft enough to leave an indent when pressed, but not so soft that it’s greasy or melting.
• If your frosting is too thick, add more milk, a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
• For a super smooth frosting, sift your powdered sugar and cocoa powder before adding them to the butter.
• Always allow your cake cool completely before you start frosting to prevent it from melting off.

Frequently Asked Questions

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