If you are looking for the best ultra-moist chocolate cake recipe, this is it. This homemade ultra-moist chocolate cake is incredibly soft, rich, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this easy chocolate cake recipe stays moist for days and is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any chocolate craving.
Why You’ll Love This Ultra-Moist Chocolate Cake
- Super moist and tender chocolate cake
- Rich, deep chocolate flavor
- Easy one-bowl chocolate cake recipe
- Perfect for layering, cupcakes, or sheet cake
- Stays soft and moist for days
Ingredients for Ultra-Moist Chocolate Cake
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for extra moisture)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee or hot water (enhances chocolate flavor)
How to Make Ultra-Moist Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans or one 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and lump-free.
Step 4: Add Hot Liquid
Slowly pour in the hot coffee or hot water while mixing. The batter will be thin—this is the secret to an ultra-moist chocolate cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool
Allow the cake to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Ultra-Moist Chocolate Frosting (Optional but Recommended)
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar and cocoa powder gradually. Pour in cream and vanilla, then beat until fluffy and smooth.
Tips for the Most Moist Chocolate Cake
- Use oil instead of butter for extra moisture
- Hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor
- Do not overbake—check at 30 minutes
- Use buttermilk for an even softer crumb
Storage & Freezing
- Store the ultra-moist chocolate cake covered at room temperature for 2 days
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this chocolate cake so moist?
The combination of oil, milk, and hot liquid creates a soft, tender crumb that locks in moisture.
Can I make this ultra-moist chocolate cake as cupcakes?
Yes! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This ultra-moist chocolate cake recipe is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. Soft, rich, fudgy, and easy to make, it’s guaranteed to become your go-to homemade chocolate cake recipe.