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Close-up of moist chocolate cake ideas recipes with smooth chocolate frosting.

Why Everyone Loves This Cake Ideas Recipes (+ Make-Ahead Tips)

Discover a beloved cake recipe with make-ahead tips, perfect for any occasion. This recipe is designed for baking enthusiasts who want to impress guests with delicious, convenient treats.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 418
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 cup butter cubed
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup baking cocoa
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Icing
  • 1/2 cup butter cubed
  • 1/4 cup 2% milk plus 2 tablespoons
  • 3 tablespoons baking cocoa
  • 3-3/4 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Small saucepan
  • Baking pan (15x10x1-in)
  • Wire rack

Method
 

  1. In a large saucepan, bring the butter, water, and cocoa to a boil. Remove from the heat.
  2. Combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt; add to the cocoa mixture. Stir in the sour cream until smooth.
  3. Pour into a greased 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. In a small saucepan, melt the butter; add milk and cocoa. Bring to a boil.
  5. Remove from the heat. Whisk in confectioners' sugar and vanilla until smooth. Pour over warm cake.
  6. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Nutrition

Calories: 418kcalCarbohydrates: 72gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 266mgFiber: 1gSugar: 57g

Notes

This cake is excellent for making ahead. You can bake the cake and prepare the icing separately. Store the cake at room temperature and the icing in the refrigerator. Frost the cake just before serving for the best texture.

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