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Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee, Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect choice. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy frosting, and beautiful presentation makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
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Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee, Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect choice. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy frosting, and beautiful presentation makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword chocolate cake, Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 12

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake

  • 100 g neutral oil
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 165 g buttermilk room temperature
  • 120 g all purpose flour
  • 225 g granulated sugar
  • 55 g cocoa powder Dutch-processed or natural
  • 140 g hot brewed coffee
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 226 g full-fat cream cheese room temperature
  • 360 g powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions

Preparing the Cake:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two 6-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and set aside for later.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil, egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Gradually sift in the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold everything together with a rubber spatula until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
  • Slowly pour in half of the hot coffee, folding the mixture gently until incorporated. Repeat with the remaining coffee. Note: The batter will be thin—this is normal!
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
  • Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  • With the mixer on low, gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, ensuring each addition is well combined. Once all the sugar is incorporated, increase to medium speed and mix for 2 minutes until creamy and smooth.

Assembling Your Cake:

  • Place the first chocolate cake layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread ¾ cup of frosting evenly over the top.
  • Flip the second layer upside down and place it on top of the frosted layer. Using an offset spatula, spread a thin crumb coat of frosting around the entire cake.
  • Chill the cake in the freezer for 20 minutes to set the crumb coat.
  • Once firm, apply a final layer of frosting, smoothing it out evenly. Slice, serve, and savor every bite of this rich, chocolaty treat!

Notes

  • Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. If you don’t have one, use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid overpacking.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined to prevent dense cakes or sunken centers.
  • Cool Completely: Let the cake layers cool fully before decorating. Frosting warm cakes can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
  • Storage Tips: Store the unsliced cake in a large airtight container or cake carrier for up to 5 days. If sliced, cover the exposed section with extra frosting to keep it moist.
  • Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, wrap individual cake slices in cling film and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Freezing an entire unsliced cake is not recommended as it may compromise texture and flavor.
Follow these tips for a show-stopping dessert that stays fresh and delicious every time!