Imagine a chocolate cake so rich, moist, and irresistible that it becomes the star of your holiday dessert table. This Christmas Eve Chocolate Cake is not just another dessert – it's a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing masterpiece that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. With its deep, intense chocolate flavor and incredibly tender crumb, this cake is the perfect way to end your festive celebration, creating memories that will last long after the last slice is devoured.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 cups 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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan, ensuring all surfaces are evenly coated to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps remove any lumps and ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring with a whisk or electric mixer on medium speed until the batter is smooth and no visible flour streaks remain.
- Carefully add the boiling water to the batter, mixing gently but thoroughly. The batter will be very thin, which is normal for this type of chocolate cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or serving.
- Optional: Once cooled, you can frost with chocolate buttercream, dust with powdered sugar, or serve as is for a simple, rich chocolate cake.
Tips
- Ingredient Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for better ingredient integration and a smoother batter.
- Sifting is Key: Take the extra time to sift your dry ingredients to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, even cake texture.
- Boiling Water Technique: The boiling water helps to "bloom" the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor and creating an incredibly moist cake.
- Don't Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to prevent a tough cake texture.
- Oven Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the exact 350°F (175°C) for perfect baking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure a perfect finish.
- Storage Tip: This cake stays moist for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra festive touch, garnish with candy cane pieces, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg
