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Sunk Chocolate Cake

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This sunk chocolate cake is a rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey dessert layered with velvety chocolate frosting. Made with cocoa and hot water or coffee, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for any celebration.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 10–12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 3/4 cups (350 g) granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk
  • 1 cup (240 ml) hot water or hot coffee
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (75 g) cocoa powder (for frosting)
  • 3 1/2 cups (420 g) powdered sugar
  • 68 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.
  4. Combine the wet and dry mixtures, then mix in hot water or coffee until smooth (batter will be thin).
  5. Divide batter evenly between pans and tap gently to release air bubbles.
  6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. For frosting: beat softened butter until creamy. Add cocoa powder and mix well.
  9. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with cream or milk, until smooth and spreadable.
  10. Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy.
  11. To assemble: place one cake layer on a plate, frost the top, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides.
  12. Decorate with swirls or toppings as desired. Let the cake rest 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use hot coffee instead of water for deeper chocolate flavor.
  • Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness.
  • Substitute buttermilk for milk for a more tender crumb.
  • Layer with ganache for extra indulgence.
  • Top with fruit or sprinkles for a festive touch.

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