A classic chocolate cake paired with a rich and creamy vanilla frosting is the ultimate comfort dessert. This Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Frosting offers the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor, featuring moist layers of chocolate cake topped with a luscious vanilla or cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake will always be a crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. The cake itself is rich, moist, and tender, thanks to the combination of cocoa powder, buttermilk, and hot water. Topped with either a smooth vanilla frosting or a tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake delivers layers of flavor that pair perfectly together. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make a delicious dessert that everyone will love. It’s a timeless recipe that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect for Any Occasion

This chocolate cake with frosting is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings. It’s a dessert that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

2. Rich and Moist Cake

The combination of buttermilk and hot water ensures that the cake comes out soft, moist, and incredibly flavorful.

3. Customizable Frosting

You can choose between a classic vanilla frosting or a tangy cream cheese frosting, depending on your preference for a sweeter or more tangy taste.

4. Easy to Make

This cake is straightforward to prepare, and you don’t need any special equipment. It’s a great recipe for both beginners and experienced bakers.

5. Classic Flavors Everyone Loves

Chocolate and vanilla are a timeless combination. The balance of the rich, slightly bitter chocolate cake with the sweet and creamy frosting is irresistible.

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake:

Flour
Sugar
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (high-quality)
Baking Soda
Baking Powder
Salt
Oil (such as canola, vegetable, or coconut)
Eggs
Buttermilk
Vanilla
Hot Water

Vanilla Frosting:

Butter (softened)
Cream Cheese (softened)
Powdered Sugar
Vanilla Bean Paste

Cream Cheese Frosting:

Butter (softened)
Cream Cheese (softened)
Powdered Sugar
Vanilla Bean Paste

Variations

Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting: If you want a richer flavor, combine cocoa powder with cream cheese frosting to create a chocolate cream cheese frosting.
Add-ins to Cake: You can fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the cake batter for extra texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Coffee Infused Cake: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee or brewed espresso to the batter to enhance the flavor of the chocolate cake.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla to the dry ingredients. Mix until combined. Gradually add the hot water to the batter, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s perfectly fine.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Vanilla Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully combined. Stir in the vanilla bean paste until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)

If you prefer cream cheese frosting, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue mixing until fluffy. Add the vanilla bean paste and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer of cake on top. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with your choice of vanilla or cream cheese frosting.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure to bring your butter, cream cheese, and eggs to room temperature before starting. This will ensure smooth batters and frosting.
Don’t Overmix the Cake Batter: Mix the cake ingredients until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
Cool the Cake Completely: Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting. This will prevent the frosting from melting into the cake.
Check Cake Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

How to Serve

Serve this chocolate cake with vanilla frosting at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. It’s perfect for any event, whether it’s a birthday, family gathering, or just a sweet treat after dinner. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it to extend the freshness for 4-5 days.

Freezing

Freeze individual slices of cake by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

To reheat frozen slices, remove the plastic wrap and foil, and microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of high-quality cocoa powder?

For the best flavor, it’s recommended to use high-quality cocoa powder, but regular cocoa powder will work in a pinch.

2. How can I make the frosting less sweet?

If the frosting is too sweet, reduce the powdered sugar slightly, or add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.

3. Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can make the cake layers a day ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and frost the cake when ready to serve.

4. Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, you can use any frosting you prefer. Chocolate ganache, buttercream, or whipped cream would be great alternatives.

5. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

6. Can I add mix-ins to the cake batter?

Yes, you can fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins to add texture and flavor to the cake.

7. How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

8. Can I use margarine instead of butter in the frosting?

While butter provides the best flavor and texture, you can use margarine in the frosting if necessary.

9. How do I prevent the frosting from melting on the cake?

Ensure that the cake layers are completely cool before frosting, and keep the cake in a cool place until serving.

10. Can I freeze the entire frosted cake?

Yes, you can freeze the entire frosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Frosting is a timeless, easy-to-make dessert that combines the deep, rich flavor of chocolate with the creamy sweetness of vanilla frosting. Whether you choose the classic vanilla frosting or the tangy cream cheese version, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering. With its moist cake and luscious frosting, it’s a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this perfect combination of flavors and create memories around a cake that’s both delicious and beautiful.