Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the baking powder, cocoa powder, flour, and sugar to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk and eggs until well combined. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a smooth batter forms. Ensure there are no dry patches or lumps.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan and tap it gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling and Coating
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the cocoa powder, margarine, condensed milk, and milk cream.
- Stir the mixture constantly to avoid burning. Cook until it thickens into a rich, creamy consistency, about 10 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. This will be used both as a filling between the cake layers and as a frosting.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Moisture Syrup
- In a small saucepan, mix the cocoa powder, milk, and water.
- Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring until the cocoa dissolves completely. Do not let it boil. Set aside to cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cake has cooled, carefully slice it horizontally into two even layers using a serrated knife.
- Place the bottom layer on a serving plate and brush it generously with the prepared moisture syrup. This ensures a soft and moist texture.
- Spread a layer of the chocolate filling evenly over the bottom layer.
- Place the top layer of the cake on top and repeat the process: brush with syrup and spread the chocolate filling.
Step 5: Coat and Decorate
- Use the remaining chocolate filling to coat the entire cake, smoothing it with a spatula for a polished finish.
- Garnish with your choice of grated coconut, chocolate sprinkles, chopped nuts, or chocolate flakes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
This Simple Chocolate Cake is a true delight for all chocolate lovers. Its moist layers, paired with the rich chocolate fudge frosting, make it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. The combination of simplicity in preparation and decadent flavor ensures it will become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you serve it as the star of a celebration or a casual family dessert, this cake is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy the joy of baking and sharing a homemade chocolate masterpiece!
