Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting

Name: Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Creations from the Oven

I've always had a love affair with chocolate cake, and this recipe is near and dear to my heart. The combination of rich cocoa and a silky milk frosting creates a dessert that's not just decadent but also incredibly comforting. I remember the first time I served it at a family gathering; the looks on everyone’s faces as they took their first bites was priceless. It's a perfect treat for birthdays, celebrations, or simply when I crave something sweet. Trust me, this cake will become a favorite in your home too!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:29:35.372Z

I remember the first time I made this chocolate cake; it was for a friend’s birthday, and the smell of cocoa wafting through the kitchen was intoxicating. Every bite brought joy, not just to me, but to everyone who tasted it! The secret? Using high-quality cocoa powder, which elevates the chocolate flavor to a whole new level.

With the milk frosting, I decided to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness perfectly. Watching the frosting whip up to a creamy consistency was a joy, and spreading it generously on the cooled cake made it even more irresistible. You’re in for a treat with this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy milk frosting
Simple and quick to prepare, perfect for beginners
A delightful treat for any occasion, from birthdays to everyday cravings

Understanding Your Ingredients

The quality of your cocoa powder can significantly affect the flavor of your chocolate cake. Opt for a high-quality, unsweetened cocoa powder for the richest taste. Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for a milder flavor and a darker color, and it can give the cake a more complex profile. When mixing your dry ingredients, ensure they are thoroughly combined to avoid clumps, as these can affect the texture of the cake once baked.

Using whole milk is essential in this recipe as it adds richness and moisture, allowing the cake to stay tender and fluffy. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with 2% milk, but the cake may not be as rich as intended. Also, be cautious with the measurements; accuracy in baking is key, especially when using ingredients like sugar and flour which impact the cake's structure.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking your chocolate cake, make sure to check for doneness around 28-30 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, so keep a close eye on the time. If your cake domes in the center, just a gentle press on the top when cooled will flatten it slightly before frosting.

For the frosting, allow your butter to soften at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes before mixing. A properly softened butter creates a smoother texture and a creamier taste in your frosting. If the frosting becomes too thick, you can adjust its consistency by adding a bit more milk, one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired spreadability.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Cake

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Instructions to Prepare Chocolate Cake

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.

Incorporate Boiling Water

Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes. Check with a toothpick.

Prepare the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until smooth. Stir in vanilla.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate, spread frosting on top, and place the other layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake.

Pro Tips

For an extra chocolatey flavor, try adding chocolate chips to the batter before baking!

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're preparing for a large gathering, you can bake the cakes a day in advance. Simply wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap to retain moisture and store them at room temperature or in the fridge until you're ready to frost. This can also help enhance the flavors as the cakes will have time to settle.

The assembled cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent the frosting from hardening, consider covering the cake with a cake dome or a loose layer of plastic wrap. If you have leftovers, you can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to a month.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a twist on the classic chocolate flavor, consider adding a layer of raspberry or cherry preserves between the cake layers before frosting. This contrast of tart fruit with rich chocolate amplifies the dessert’s complexity and provides a refreshing balance. You can also sprinkle crushed nuts or chocolate chips between the layers for added texture.

When it comes time to serve, consider pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream; the creaminess complements the cake beautifully. For an extra touch, dust the top of the frosted cake with cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an elegant presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use applesauce or a flaxseed mixture as an egg substitute.