why make this recipe
This Hershey Chocolate Cake is a classic. It is rich, moist, and easy to make. You can bake it for birthdays, weeknight dessert, or any time you want a simple chocolate cake.
introduction
This recipe uses common ingredients and a simple method. The batter is thin but bakes into a soft, chocolate cake. The frosting is creamy and quick to make. You do not need special skills to get good results.
how to make Hershey Chocolate Cake
Follow the steps below in order. Read the full recipe and preheat the oven first. Use room temperature eggs and measure ingredients well. Pour boiling water into the batter last. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 3/4 cup + 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature*)
- 1 cup buttermilk*
- 1/2 cup oil (vegetable or canola oil)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water (or hot coffee)
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions :
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two 8 inch round baking pans with parchment paper* and then spray lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- Dry Ingredients: Stir together sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl.
- Add eggs, milk, oil and vanilla and mix until well combined. Stir in boiling water (or hot coffee). Batter will be thin.
- Pour batter into prepared pans.
- Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Chocolate Frosting: Combine butter and cocoa powder. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix for several minutes until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble: Place one cake layer on serving tray. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add second cake layer. Frost top and sides of cake with remaining frosting. Cut and serve.
tag before FAQ.
how to serve Hershey Chocolate Cake
Serve the cake at room temperature. Cut with a sharp knife for clean slices. You can add fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
how to store Hershey Chocolate Cake
- At room temperature: Cover the cake with a cake dome or plastic wrap and keep for 1 to 2 days.
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.
- To freeze: Wrap slices or the whole frosted cake tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge then bring to room temperature.
tips to make Hershey Chocolate Cake
- Use room temperature eggs for a better mix.
- Measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling with a knife.
- Use hot coffee instead of water for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans 10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- If frosting is too thick, add a little more milk one teaspoon at a time.
variation (if any)
- Coffee option: Use hot strong coffee instead of boiling water for richer flavor.
- Chocolate chips: Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips for texture.
- Layer change: Make three thinner layers by using three 8-inch pans and adjust bake time as needed.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A: Yes. Use 1 cup regular milk plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit 5 minutes to thicken.
Q: Can I make this in one pan?
A: Yes. Bake in a larger pan, but check bake time. A single 9×13 pan usually needs 35–40 minutes.
Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it is done.
Q: Can I make the frosting ahead?
A: Yes. Make frosting and store in the fridge up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature and beat again before using.
Q: Is this recipe good for cupcakes?
A: Yes. Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes in a standard muffin tin.
Conclusion
For the original HERSHEY’S version and more tips, see the official recipe page at HERSHEY’S "Perfectly Chocolate" Chocolate Cake Recipe.
For a tested home cook version and step-by-step notes, check the guide at Hershey’s Chocolate Cake – Tastes Better From Scratch.