Country Living Chocolate Cake

There’s nothing quite like the rich and comforting taste of a homemade chocolate cake. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy evening in, this Country Living Chocolate Cake recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and bring warmth to your home. The combination of moist chocolate cake layers and a decadent chocolate frosting is a classic that never fails to please. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a delicious treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ¾ cups sugar
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– 1 ½ tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.

4. Stir in the boiling water carefully. The batter will be thin, but this is normal and ensures a moist cake.

5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Tap the pans on the countertop to remove any air bubbles.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

8. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting.

Chocolate Frosting Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
– ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup heavy cream

9. In a medium bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until well combined.

10. Mix in the vanilla extract and then slowly add the heavy cream while beating on medium-high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.

11. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

12. Decorate the cake as desired with additional chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries.

Enjoy your Country Living Chocolate Cake with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot coffee, or your favorite afternoon tea for a truly delightful treat that embodies the warmth and comfort of homemade baking. This cake is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or simply indulging in a well-deserved sweet moment at home.