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Easy Chocolate Cake (One Bowl) - Quick, Moist, and Foolproof

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-process)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or light olive)
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) buttermilk (or milk + 2 teaspoons lemon juice or vinegar)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) hot coffee or hot water (coffee enhances chocolate flavor)
  • Optional for serving: chocolate frosting, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream

Method
 

  1. Prep the pan: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square or 9-inch round baking pan and line the bottom with parchment for easy release.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined and no cocoa lumps remain.
  3. Add wet ingredients (except the hot liquid): Whisk in eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth. The batter will be thick.
  4. Bloom with heat: Pour in the hot coffee or hot water and whisk gently until fully incorporated. The batter will look thin—this is right and makes the cake moist.
  5. Fill and smooth: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and tap once on the counter to release air bubbles.
  6. Bake: Bake for 28–34 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs and no wet batter.
  7. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a rack to cool completely.
  8. Finish and serve: Dust with powdered sugar, or frost once cooled. Slice and enjoy.