Classic Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Buttercream

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Moist chocolate cake layers paired with a smooth vanilla buttercream frosting create a timeless dessert perfect for any celebration. This american-inspired desserts ready in about 55 minutes layers all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 12, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 35 min Serves 12 American cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups granulated sugar, 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1 tsp salt.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 cup buttermilk, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 2 tsp vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Carefully stir in 1 cup boiling water until batter is smooth and thin. Pour batter evenly into the prepared pans.
  4. Step 4: Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks and cool completely.
  5. Step 5: For the frosting, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 4 cups powdered sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup whole milk on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Spread frosting between layers and over top and sides of the cooled cakes. Chill briefly to set before slicing.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Classic Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Buttercream take to make?

Total time is about 55 minutes (20 min prep + 35 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Classic Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Buttercream?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Classic Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Buttercream?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Classic Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Buttercream for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 12 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 12). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Classic Chocolate Layer Cake with Vanilla Buttercream?

American desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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