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–+ servings
Rich Chocolate Cake
This Rich Chocolate Cake is a moist, old-fashioned dessert that embodies the comforting flavors of home baking. It uses classic pantry staples like cocoa, butter, and sour cream (or milk) to create a deeply chocolatey, tender crumb. Baked at a gentle temperature for an hour, it’s the kind of recipe that fills the kitchen with warm aromas and evokes memories of family gatherings and weekend treats. With its simple, straightforward preparation and rich flavor, this cake remains a timeless favorite for birthdays, potlucks, and cozy evenings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk ( or sour cream)
  • 1 cup cocoa
  • ¼ lb margarine ( or butter)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 3 cups flour
  • 1 cup boiling water

Instructions
 

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

  • Measure all ingredients into a large bowl in the order listed.

Step 2: Mix Batter

  • Do not stir or mix until after the boiling water has been added. Then beat for about four or five minutes until smooth.

Step 3: Prepare Pan

  • Grease and flour a tube pan (or bundt pan).

Step 4: Bake

  • Pour the batter into the pan and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before removing. Dust with powdered sugar or top with frosting if desired.

Tips

  • Substitute sour cream for milk for an extra-tender, richer crumb.
  • Use hot freshly brewed coffee instead of boiling water to deepen the chocolate flavor.
  • Add 1 to 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for additional flavor complexity.
  • Fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture variation.
  • Frost with chocolate buttercream, ganache, or dust with powdered sugar.
  • Bake in two round cake pans (adjust time to 30 to 35 minutes).
  • Line the pan with parchment in addition to greasing for easy removal.
  • Ensure water is truly boiling when added, this helps bloom the cocoa.
  • Allow cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 5gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 410mgPotassium: 190mgFiber: 2gSugar: 38gVitamin A: 350IUCalcium: 55mgIron: 2mg
Keyword chocolate cake, family recipe, homemade, moist cake, old fashioned, rich chocolate dessert, tube pan cake, vintage
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