Easy One-Bowl Chocolate Cake on a plate

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
  • 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
  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. 2In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. 3Add the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla, and beat until smooth, about 2 minutes.
  4. 4Carefully stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin, which is normal).
  5. 5Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  6. 6Bake for 28-32 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. 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

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.