When you take a bite of yellow cake with chocolate frosting, it’s like a party in your mouth. The soft, fluffy yellow cake is a perfect canvas for that rich, velvety chocolate frosting. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you bake, making everyone wonder what deliciousness awaits them. This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s nostalgia on a plate. It brings back memories of birthdays and family gatherings where laughter echoes alongside the clinking of forks against plates.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it was my go-to treat for every celebration. The way my family’s faces lit up when they saw this cake made all the flour-covered chaos in the kitchen worth it. Whether it’s a birthday bash or a Tuesday night craving, this yellow cake with chocolate frosting never fails to impress and satisfy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This yellow cake with chocolate frosting is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
- The delightful balance between buttery cake and creamy frosting creates an irresistible flavor experience
- Its vibrant yellow hue makes it a standout centerpiece on any dessert table
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive celebrations, this cake always pleases the crowd
I remember one birthday when I accidentally spilled half the batter on the floor. My dog decided it was his lucky day, and let me tell you, he didn’t leave a crumb behind!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for better texture and flavor; it’s essential for that fluffy cake.
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Granulated Sugar: This sweetener helps create that tender crumb; don’t skimp on it!
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Baking Powder: A must for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
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Salt: Just a pinch enhances sweetness; trust me, it’s magic.
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Unsalted Butter: Bring it to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar; flavor is key here.
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Eggs: Use large eggs for the best results; they add moisture and richness.
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Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth of flavor; skip imitation if possible.
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Whole Milk: Full-fat milk yields creamier cake; don’t go low-fat here!
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Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for that rich chocolate frosting.
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Powdered Sugar: This sweetener gives your frosting that smooth finish; sift it before using.
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Heavy Cream: Adds richness to your frosting; adjust depending on your desired consistency.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together!
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and line them with parchment paper—trust me, this saves cleanup time!
Create the Cake Batter: In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes should do it!
Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Beat in eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture until fully incorporated. Add vanilla extract and mix well—it’ll smell heavenly!
Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture while pouring in milk alternately until everything is combined—don’t overmix or your cake will be dense!
Bake Those Layers!: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—your kitchen should be smelling amazing!
Prepare the Chocolate Frosting: While cakes are cooling, beat cocoa powder with powdered sugar in a bowl. Gradually add heavy cream until you achieve your desired consistency—it should be spreadable but not runny!
Strong layer of frosting between cakes: Once cooled completely, place one layer of cake on a plate. Spread frosting generously on top before adding the second layer—get creative here!
Enjoy every bite!
Now sit back, slice yourself a piece of that beautifully layered yellow cake with chocolate frosting, and enjoy every bite as you celebrate life’s little moments!
You Must Know
- Baking a yellow cake with chocolate frosting requires precision; make sure your ingredients are at room temperature
- The smell of vanilla and chocolate will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
- Remember, a little patience goes a long way in achieving that perfect rise!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing your cake pans. Mix the dry ingredients first, then cream the butter and sugar. Finally, alternate adding the wet and dry ingredients for a fluffy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique flavor twist. Adding chocolate chips into the batter can also elevate your yellow cake with chocolate frosting experience!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, use the microwave for about 10 seconds or enjoy it cold; it’s delightful either way!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure all your ingredients are measured accurately to avoid disaster
- Use fresh baking powder to guarantee a light texture
- For an even better flavor, let the cake cool completely before frosting!
Baking this yellow cake always brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter and flour flew everywhere. Everyone would gather around as she shared her secret tips while we eagerly awaited that sweet slice.
FAQ
How do I prevent my yellow cake from sinking?
Make sure to properly measure ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What frosting pairs best with yellow cake?
Chocolate frosting is classic, but cream cheese frosting also complements beautifully!
Yellow Cake with Chocolate Frosting
Indulge in the timeless delight of yellow cake with chocolate frosting, a perfect blend of fluffy texture and rich flavor that evokes cherished memories. This classic recipe is simple to make, featuring a buttery yellow cake topped with velvety chocolate frosting. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration or just a sweet treat at home, this cake promises to impress your family and friends. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, followed by vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients with milk until combined; avoid overmixing.
- Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For frosting, beat cocoa powder and powdered sugar; add heavy cream until desired consistency is achieved.
- Once cooled, frost the top of one cake layer before adding the second layer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg