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Close-up of a rich chocolate cake with smooth frosting, sliced to reveal a moist interior.

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

Discover a beloved cake recipe that's perfect for any occasion. Learn how to make it ahead of time to simplify your entertaining.
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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 milk 2%
  • 2 tablespoons milk 2%
  • 3 tablespoons baking cocoa
  • 3-3/4 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Small saucepan
  • 15x10x1-in. baking pan
  • 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. Remove from the heat.
  5. Whisk in the confectioners' sugar and vanilla until smooth. Pour over the warm cake. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Nutrition

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

Notes

This cake can be made a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature. The icing is best applied when the cake is slightly warm or at room temperature.

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