Chocolate Cake from Homemade Cake Mix

Chocolate Cake from Homemade Cake Mix Recipe - Made with Simple Ingredients

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25-35 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a homemade Chocolate Cake made from scratch with this easy recipe using homemade cake mix. This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

History

Chocolate cake has been a beloved dessert for centuries, with its origins dating back to the 18th century. The combination of chocolate and cake has been a winning combination that has stood the test of time, evolving into the delicious treat we know and love today.

Ingredients

4 cups homemade cake mix
3 tbsp cocoa powder
0.25 cup softened butter
3 eggs
1 cup milk
2 tbsp milk
3 (1 oz) squares unsweetened chocolate

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Spray two 8" round cake pans OR one 13" x 9" cake pan with nonstick baking spray containing flour and set them aside.
Pour one portion of the cake mix into a large bowl and stir in the cocoa powder. Create a well in the center of the mix and add the vanilla, butter, eggs, and 1 cup of milk. Beat the mixture for 1 minute using an electric mixer on low speed until it is well blended. Then, stir in 2 tbsp of milk and the melted chocolate. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl and beat for an additional 2 minutes on medium speed until the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake the layer cakes at 350°F (177°C) for 20–30 minutes, or until the cakes spring back when lightly pressed in the center and begin to pull away from the edges of the pans. Bake the 9" x 13" cake for 25–35 minutes, or until the cake is fully cooked and passes the toothpick test.

Variations

Add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture.
Use different flavored extracts like almond or peppermint for a unique twist.
Top the cake with a chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the recipe for best results.

- Be sure to properly grease and flour your cake pans to prevent sticking.

- Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chocolate Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to properly measure all ingredients for accurate results.

- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to ensure the batter is well blended.

- Check the doneness of the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center – if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use store-bought cake mix instead of homemade for a quicker option.

- Substitute vegetable oil for butter if desired.

- Use almond milk or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

This Chocolate Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Chocolate Cake with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for a few seconds or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Chocolate Cake contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Chocolate Cake contains approximately 35g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Chocolate Cake contains approximately 15g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this Chocolate Cake contains approximately 5g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This Chocolate Cake is a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

This Chocolate Cake contains dairy, eggs, and wheat.

Summary

This Chocolate Cake is a delicious treat that is moderate in calories and provides essential nutrients like iron and calcium.

Summary

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this homemade Chocolate Cake made from scratch with this easy recipe using homemade cake mix. Perfect for any occasion, this classic dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chocolate Cake from Homemade Cake Mix. It was a cold winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha. She had invited me over for tea, and as we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping our drinks, she suddenly got up and rummaged through her pantry.

"I have a special recipe to show you," she said with a mischievous grin.

I watched in fascination as Martha pulled out a box of cake mix, a bag of chocolate chips, and a few other ingredients. She explained that she had come up with this recipe herself, combining the convenience of a store-bought cake mix with the richness of homemade chocolate cake.

As Martha began to mix the ingredients together, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and creativity. She had a way of making cooking look effortless, as if she were born with a whisk in her hand. I asked her where she had learned to cook, and she chuckled and said it was a combination of trial and error, family recipes, and a lot of practice.

As we waited for the cake to bake, Martha regaled me with stories of her own grandmother, who had been a legendary cook in their small town. She told me how her grandmother had passed down her recipes through the generations, each one carefully written on index cards and stored in a worn recipe box.

When the cake was finally ready, Martha sliced it into thick, decadent pieces and served it on delicate china plates. The rich aroma of chocolate filled the room, and I took my first bite with eager anticipation. The cake was moist and tender, with just the right amount of sweetness. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation.

As I savored each bite, Martha leaned back in her chair and smiled at me. "Cooking is more than just following a recipe," she said. "It's about creativity, experimentation, and most importantly, love. When you cook with love, it always tastes better."

That day, Martha's Chocolate Cake from Homemade Cake Mix became a staple in my own recipe collection. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, delighting in the smiles and compliments it never failed to elicit. Each time I baked it, I would think of Martha and her grandmother, of the legacy of love and tradition that they had passed down to me.

Over the years, I have added my own personal touches to the recipe, experimenting with different types of chocolate, adding a touch of espresso powder for depth of flavor, or swirling in a dollop of creamy peanut butter for a decadent twist. But no matter how many variations I try, Martha's original recipe remains my favorite, a cherished reminder of that magical winter day in her cozy kitchen.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my own recipe box filled with handwritten notes and faded index cards, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking that Martha gave me that day. Her Chocolate Cake from Homemade Cake Mix will always hold a special place in my heart, a symbol of friendship, creativity, and the joy of sharing good food with those we love. And for that, I will be forever grateful.