Craving chocolate cake but short on time? This One-Bowl Chocolate Fudge Cake is your new go-to for an incredibly moist and decadent dessert that’s unbelievably easy to make. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this delicious easy cake recipe.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- All-purpose flour: You can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Dutch-processed cocoa powder works well for a darker, richer flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Brown sugar can be used for a more caramel-like note.
- Baking soda & baking powder: Essential for lift; do not substitute.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness.
- Eggs: Crucial for structure.
- Milk: Any dairy or non-dairy milk (almond, soy, oat) works.
- Vegetable oil: Melted coconut oil or unsalted melted butter can be used.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Hot water or coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor and creates a tender crumb.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water (or hot brewed coffee for a richer flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking pan, large mixing bowl, whisk, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. This prepares your pan for baking a perfect easy cake recipe.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Ensure there are no lumps for a smooth batter.
3. Add Wet Ingredients (Except Hot Water)
Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix with your whisk until just combined.
4. Incorporate Hot Water
Carefully pour the hot water (or coffee) into the batter. Whisk gently until the batter is smooth and well-combined. The batter will be thin, which is normal for this easy cake recipe.
5. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool Completely
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before frosting or serving to ensure a perfectly set easy cake recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Chocolate Chip Surprise: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips with the wet ingredients for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Peppermint Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla for a festive touch.
- Espresso Kick: Use hot brewed coffee instead of hot water to deepen the chocolate flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover One-Bowl Chocolate Fudge Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake this easy cake recipe a day in advance and store it at room temperature.
Q: Why is my cake dry?
A: Overbaking is a common cause of dry cake. Make sure to check for doneness at the earliest recommended time.
Q: Can I make this as cupcakes?
A: Absolutely! Pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-22 minutes.
Q: What kind of frosting goes best with this cake?
A: A simple chocolate buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even a ganache pairs wonderfully with this easy cake recipe.
Q: Do I really need hot water?
A: The hot water helps bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing its flavor and contributing to the cake’s moist texture.
Q: Can I use self-rising flour?
A: No, this recipe specifically calls for all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder for the correct leavening.