How To Make My Favorite Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe | CHELSWEETS

unsweetened cocoa powder

🥗Healthier: dark cocoa powder

💰Cheaper: chocolate syrup

Dark cocoa powder enhances flavor without added sugar.

eggs

🥗Healthier: flaxseed meal

💰Cheaper: egg substitute

Flaxseed meal is a vegan alternative that binds well.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk is lower in calories, while water reduces costs.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: applesauce

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Applesauce adds moisture with fewer calories.

Cream together 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar and 1 cup unsalted butter on high speed until light in color.

Add eggs two at a time, mixing until incorporated, then add the remaining two eggs.

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup black cocoa and 1 cup very hot water until smooth.

Add 1 cup buttermilk to the cocoa mixture and mix well.

In another bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon baking soda with flour.

Add 1/3 of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix on low speed.

Add half of the cocoa mixture to the batter, mixing gently to avoid splattering.

Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.

Add another 1/3 of the dry ingredients, mixing gently, then add the remaining cocoa mixture.

Finish by adding the last of the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.

Prepare four 7-inch cake pans by lining with parchment paper and spraying with non-stick cooking spray.

Weigh the batter in each pan using a digital scale to ensure even layers.

Bang the pans on the counter to distribute the batter and release air bubbles.

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven until a toothpick comes out clean, rotating pans halfway through baking.

Cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes before removing them.

Use a small offset spatula to separate the cake from the pan.

Transfer the cakes to the freezer for about 30 minutes to cool further.

Level the cakes using a serrated knife once they are at room temperature.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens