Craving a truly decadent and incredibly moist chocolate treat? This chocolate sour cream cake recipe delivers a tender crumb and rich flavor, making it one of the best soft cake recipes you’ll ever bake. It’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- All-purpose flour: Cake flour can be used for an even softer texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Dutch-processed cocoa enhances the deep chocolate flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Brown sugar can add a slight caramel note.
- Sour cream: Plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for moisture and tang.
- Eggs: No good egg substitutes are recommended for this recipe.
- Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract is best for flavor.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the Frosting (Optional):
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories per serving (approx.): 450 (with frosting)
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking pan, large mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer (optional).
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your soft cake doesn’t stick.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth batter.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. This combination provides the incredible moisture for this soft cake.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.
5. Add Hot Water
Carefully stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth and a bit thin. This step is crucial for the cake’s tender crumb.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Make the Frosting (Optional)
If frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then milk, vanilla, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy. Spread evenly over the cooled soft cake.
Variation Ideas
- Coffee Infusion: Add 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee or espresso powder to the hot water for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold 1 cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking for extra chocolate goodness.
- Berry Swirl: Swirl in a few spoonfuls of berry jam (like raspberry or cherry) before baking for a fruity twist.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover chocolate sour cream cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If refrigerated, allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze unfrosted cake slices for up to 3 months, wrapped well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why is my chocolate cake dry? Overbaking is the most common reason for dry cake. Always check for doneness with a skewer.
- Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, this soft cake recipe can be made a day ahead. Store it covered at room temperature.
- What if I don’t have sour cream? You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt for similar moisture and tang.
- Can I use a different size pan? You can use two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans, but baking time will decrease.
- Why do you add hot water? Hot water helps to bloom the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor, and keeps the soft cake moist.
- How do I know when the cake is done? Insert a wooden skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.