Classic Chocolate Cake - Brenda Gantt (2024)

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Brenda Gantt

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• Cake, Dessert

• By recipeshub_R
• September 23, 2023

The classic chocolate cake is a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time, delighting generations of chocolate lovers with its rich, moist, and indulgent flavor. Its history can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where chocolate was first consumed as a beverage. Over time, chocolate evolved from a bitter drink to a sweet and creamy treat, eventually finding its way into cakes. In this recipe, we’ll explore the long history of chocolate and how it has shaped the creation of the classic chocolate cake. We’ll also provide detailed instructions on how to make this timeless dessert.

Chocolate has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. It was originally consumed by the ancient Mayans and Aztecs as a bitter and spicy beverage. The cacao beans, from which chocolate is made, were considered so valuable that they were used as currency.

When the Spanish explorer Hernán Cortés brought cacao beans back to Europe in the 16th century, they began to be sweetened with sugar and flavored with spices like vanilla. This transformation marked the birth of modern chocolate. It quickly gained popularity among European nobility and was considered a luxury item.

In the 19th century, with the invention of cocoa powder and the availability of chocolate for baking, chocolate cakes began to appear in cookbooks. The classic chocolate cake, as we know it today, started to take shape.

The 20th century saw the rise of chocolate cakes in American households, thanks in part to the convenience of cocoa powder and the creation of chocolate cake mixes. The chocolate cake became a staple dessert for birthdays, celebrations, and everyday indulgence.

INGREDIENTS

For the Cake:

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Chocolate Ganache (Optional):

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures a smooth and lump-free batter.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake.
5. Add Boiling Water: Slowly pour in the boiling water while continuing to mix the batter. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
6. Divide and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache (Optional): To make the ganache, place the finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute to melt the chocolate. Stir until smooth, and then add the vanilla extract. Let the ganache cool slightly.
9. Assemble the Cake: Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate. If using ganache, pour a portion of it over the first layer and spread it evenly. Place the second cake layer on top and pour the remaining ganache over it, allowing it to drip down the sides of the cake.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve your classic chocolate cake. Its rich, velvety texture and deep chocolate flavor make it a timeless favorite for all occasions.

The classic chocolate cake, with its long and storied history, continues to bring joy to people around the world. Whether served at birthdays, weddings, or just as a sweet indulgence, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style. Enjoy every decadent bite!