Chocolate Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is both delicious and approachable, using natural ingredients and simple pantry staples. Einkorn flour adds a nutty flavor and nutritional benefits, while the apple cider vinegar and baking soda help create a tender, airy texture. The homemade vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor, and the smooth cocoa icing ties it all together for a decadent finish. It’s a classic chocolate cake made a little healthier without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake

• 3 cups Einkorn flour (or any wheat flour)
• 2 cups cane sugar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 6 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• ¾ cup salted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons homemade vanilla extract
• 2 cups room temperature water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

For the Icing

• 3 ½ cups organic powdered sugar (such as Wholesome brand, without cornstarch)
• 1 ¼ cups cocoa powder
• ¼ cup salted butter
• 1 teaspoon homemade vanilla extract
• ½ cup water

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together Einkorn flour, cane sugar, sea salt, cocoa powder, and baking soda.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, vanilla extract, water, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Make the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined and smooth. Avoid overmixing.
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Icing: In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Add butter, vanilla extract, and water. Beat until smooth and spreadable. Add more water or powdered sugar to adjust consistency if needed.
8. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of icing on the first cake layer, then top with the second cake layer. Cover the entire cake with the remaining icing.
9. Serve: Slice and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Makes 12-16 servings
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling and icing: 30 minutes
• Total time: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute regular wheat flour for Einkorn flour if preferred.
• Add ½ cup brewed coffee to the batter for enhanced chocolate flavor.
• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the batter for complexity.
• Top with fresh berries or chopped nuts for added texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cake covered tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cake layers (without icing) wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw before icing and serving. Reheat slices briefly in the microwave if desired.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of Einkorn flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour can be used with similar results.

Is this cake dairy-free?

No, it contains butter, but you can substitute with dairy-free alternatives.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free but can be adapted using a gluten-free flour blend.

What type of cocoa powder should I use?

Use unsweetened, natural cocoa powder for best flavor.

How do I store the cake to keep it moist?

Cover with plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I make the icing ahead of time?

Yes, store in the refrigerator and re-whip before using.

Is the cake very sweet?

It has a balanced sweetness, but you can adjust the sugar amount slightly if preferred.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use larger pans or bake in batches.

Can I add frosting decorations or toppings?

Yes, decorate with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fruit to suit the occasion.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Cake recipe is a timeless dessert that’s rich, moist, and made with wholesome ingredients. The combination of a tender crumb and luscious cocoa frosting makes it a favorite for any celebration or simple indulgence. Easy to prepare and delightful to eat, this cake will quickly become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire.

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