Desserts & Baking · Easy
Easy One-Bowl Chocolate Cake
This easy chocolate cake comes together in just one bowl with no mixer required. It's moist, rich, and perfect for birthdays or whenever a chocolate craving strikes.
15Prep min
30Cook min
45Total min
What you'll need
- 2 cupsall-purpose flour
- 2 cupssugar
- 3/4 cupunsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 teaspoonsbaking soda
- 1.5 teaspoonsbaking powder
- 1 teaspoonsalt
- 2eggs
- 1 cupbuttermilk
- 1/2 cupvegetable oil
- 2 teaspoonsvanilla extract
- 1 cupboiling water
- as neededchocolate frosting, for serving
Let's cook
- 1Preheat the oven to 350F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- 2In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- 3Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla, and beat until smooth, about 2 minutes.
- 4Carefully stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin, which is normal).
- 5Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- 6Bake for 28-32 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- 7Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Make it yours
- Make it as cupcakes and reduce baking time to 18-20 minutes.
- Add a shot of hot coffee instead of water for deeper chocolate flavor.
- Top with fresh raspberries for a pop of color.
Good with
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A dusting of powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
Frequently asked questions
Good questions, answered.
Why is the batter so thin?
The boiling water is meant to thin the batter; it results in an extra moist, tender cake.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, bake the layers a day ahead, wrap tightly, and frost the next day.



