Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting

Name: Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Oven Kitchen

I absolutely adore this Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting! It's a rich and indulgent treat that never fails to impress my friends and family. The combination of moist chocolate cake with creamy milk frosting is simply divine, and I've perfected the recipe to ensure that each bite is packed with flavor. Whether it's for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this cake is my go-to. Trust me, once you try making it, you won't want to bake anything else.

Created by

Winifred Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:41:34.920Z

When I first created this Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting, I wanted to capture the essence of classic desserts. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the creamy texture of the frosting creates a delightful balance that is perfect for any occasion. One of my favorite tips is to use high-quality cocoa powder, which really enhances the flavor of the cake.

Over the years, I've experimented with various frosting techniques, and I've found that using milk creates a smooth texture that spreads beautifully. This cake has become a staple in my home, and I love sharing it with loved ones during celebrations or just as a sweet indulgence on a quiet afternoon.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect taste and texture. For instance, the unsweetened cocoa powder is key to providing a rich chocolate flavor without overly sweetening the cake. Make sure to use high-quality cocoa to enhance the cake’s overall taste. Additionally, the use of whole milk versus low-fat milk adds to the cake's moisture, leading to a tender crumb that everyone will appreciate.

When it comes to eggs, they not only help bind the ingredients together but also contribute to the cake's structure and moisture. Fresh eggs can make a difference; consider using room temperature eggs for easier incorporation into your batter. As for the vegetable oil, it keeps the cake moist compared to butter, which might give it a denser texture. This substitution is particularly useful if you prefer a lighter, fluffier cake.

Mastering the Baking Process

Achieving the perfect bake for your chocolate cake requires attention to detail. After you pour the batter into the pans, give them a gentle shake to release any trapped air bubbles that could disrupt the cake's texture. Bake in a preheated oven and check for doneness after about 30 minutes, but do not open the oven door until the timer goes off; this helps maintain consistent heat. The toothpick test is your best friend here—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cakes are done.

Once out of the oven, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This is crucial as it prevents the cakes from breaking apart. Cooling completely is essential for frosting success; a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt. If you’re short on time, consider placing the cakes in the fridge for a bit to speed up the cooling process, but make sure not to freeze them.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious chocolate cake:

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
½ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

With these ingredients ready, let's get baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting:

Prepare the Oven and Pans

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these together until well blended.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.

Incorporate Boiling Water

Stir in the boiling water carefully. The batter will be thin, but that's normal!

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating the softened butter with a mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, mixing until fluffy. Stir in vanilla.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve your Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting to eager family and friends!

Congratulations on your delicious cake! Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea.

Pro Tips

For extra decadence, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or garnishing the cake with chocolate shavings!

Frosting Tips

Creating a silky smooth frosting is all about proper mixing. Start by beating the softened unsalted butter until it’s fluffy, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes. This initial step is vital because it introduces air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter frosting. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low to avoid a sugary cloud, and gradually incorporate the whole milk. If your frosting appears too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired spreadable consistency.

Consider adding a pinch of salt to the frosting to balance the sweetness. If you want to introduce a flavored twist, try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder or a citrus zest; both elevate the overall flavor profile. Revisit the mixer periodically to scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring that all ingredients are well integrated for a uniform finish.

Storing and Serving

For the best texture and flavor, store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it, but be aware that the frosting may harden in the fridge. To enjoy it at its best, consider bringing your cake back to room temperature before serving. Alternatively, freeze slices of the cake, well-wrapped in plastic and foil, for up to three months. Just remember to label your storage so you can easily track your treats!

This cake is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own, but if you're looking to dress it up, serve it with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate flavor and makes for an impressive presentation at any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, but whole milk provides a richer flavor and texture.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake up to 2 days in advance. Just frost it on the day you plan to serve.

→ Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.