Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting

Name: Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup whole milk; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making this Chocolate Cake With Milk Frosting whenever I want to treat myself or impress my friends. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy frosting brings pure joy to my taste buds. What I enjoy the most is how simple yet indulgent this cake can be. In just a short amount of time, I can whip up a delectable dessert that satisfies my sweet cravings. It’s a fantastic choice for birthdays, celebrations, or just a cozy night in.

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:35:35.144Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly it comes together without sacrificing flavor. I usually find chocolate cakes either too dense or too sweet, but this one strikes the perfect balance. The addition of milk in the frosting not only makes it creamy but also cuts through the richness of the cake beautifully.

One of my favorite tips is to let the cake cool completely before frosting. This ensures the frosting doesn’t melt and keeps those layers beautifully intact. I've experimented with different types of chocolate over the years, and the richness from good-quality dark chocolate really enhances the overall flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth
Creamy milk frosting that perfectly complements the cake
Simple and quick to prepare, ideal for any occasion

The Magic of Chocolate Cake

The richness of this chocolate cake comes from the combination of both cocoa powder and granulated sugar. The cocoa powder contributes a deep, intense chocolate flavor while the sugar helps balance out the bitterness of the cocoa. These two ingredients work together to create a cake that embraces indulgence. If you prefer a darker chocolate taste, consider using a high-quality dark cocoa powder, which will enhance the cake's flavor profile even more.

Baking soda and baking powder create a perfect rise, giving the cake its light and airy texture. Both leavening agents react to the acidic cocoa powder and ensure the cake is fluffy while still moist. Be careful not to overmix when combining the wet and dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to a denser cake. Stop mixing as soon as everything is just combined for an optimal rise.

Tips for Frosting Perfection

The milk frosting is the star that completes this chocolate cake. Using whole milk in your frosting adds a richness that balances the sweetness of the powdered sugar. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the whole milk for half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk if you're looking for a vegan option. Just remember to adjust the amount of powdered sugar for your desired sweetness and consistency.

When preparing the frosting, it's crucial to ensure the butter is softened but not melted. Beat it until creamy for easy incorporation of powdered sugar. If your frosting seems too stiff, adding a little more milk can help achieve a smoother consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, adding extra powdered sugar will thicken it up. Aim for a frosting that holds its shape when spread but is still easy to work with.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious cake and frosting.

Cake Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup whole milk
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your cake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well combined.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

Incorporate Boiling Water

Carefully stir in the boiling water until fully combined (the batter will be thin).

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, mixing until smooth. Stir in vanilla.

Frost the Cake

Once cakes are completely cool, spread the frosting on top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides.

Enjoy your delicious chocolate cake with milk frosting!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add chocolate shavings or fresh berries on top of the frosting.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This chocolate cake can be made a day in advance, which actually helps the flavors develop even further. After cooling, wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. If you want to make it even earlier, freeze the layers for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave them out at room temperature for a few hours before frosting.

Once frosted, the cake should be kept in the refrigerator due to the milk in the frosting. However, it’s best served at room temperature. When ready to serve, allow the cake to sit out for about 30 minutes to regain its softness without losing the frosting's creamy sheen.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

To elevate this chocolate cake, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter for an extra burst of chocolate in every bite. You can also experiment with different flavorings in the frosting. Adding a tablespoon of espresso or coffee powder can enhance the chocolate flavor, creating a mocha frosting that's delightful.

For serving, pairing slices of this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can create a delicious contrast to the richness of the cake. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, add a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness, making every bite a well-rounded experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used, but the flavor and texture may slightly differ.

→ How can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I store the cake after frosting?

Yes, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Is it possible to freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months.