Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla bean paste.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 6: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
- For optimal freshness, store the cooled cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- If you want to enjoy your dessert warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warmed but not hot.
- To make your graduation celebration even more special, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with chocolate sauce for a decadent treat.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients; it enhances the cocoa without adding any coffee flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 dessert piece
- Calories: 250
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 20g