Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake

Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe - Ingredients & Steps

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake is a classic dessert that has been passed down through generations in many families. This rich and decadent cake is perfect for special occasions or just as a delicious treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

History

This recipe for Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake has been a family favorite for decades. It originated from a handwritten recipe card that was passed down from my great-grandmother to my grandmother, and then to my mother. The cake has always been a staple at family gatherings and celebrations, and it continues to be a beloved dessert in our family today.

Ingredients

2.25 cups of sifted cake flour
1.5 cups of sugar
3 tsp of baking powder
1 tsp of salt
0.5 cups of soft shortening
1 cup of milk
1.5 tsp of vanilla
2 eggs

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease and flour two 8 or 9-inch round layer pans.
In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Add the shortening, 0.67 cup of milk, and vanilla.
Beat vigorously for 2 minutes (300 strokes).
If using an electric mixer, scrape down the sides often and use medium speed.
Add another 0.33 cup of milk and the eggs.
Beat for two minutes.
Pour the batter into the prepared pans.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
Allow the cakes to cool.
Finish with quick fudge icing or store-bought chocolate frosting.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Use a different frosting, such as cream cheese frosting or peanut butter frosting, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to sift the cake flour before measuring it to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Be sure to beat the batter vigorously for the full 2 minutes to incorporate enough air for a light and tender cake.

- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off the cake.

- For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can add a tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to properly cream the shortening and sugar together to create a light and fluffy texture in the cake.

- Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor.

- Almond or soy milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to milk.

Make Ahead Tips

You can bake the cakes ahead of time and freeze them for up to a month. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting and serving.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat, eggs, and milk.

Summary

Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake is a delicious dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but moderate in proteins. It is a treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake is a timeless dessert that is sure to please any chocolate lover. With its rich flavor and moist texture, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a slice with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake. It was tucked away in an old recipe book that had been passed down through generations in my family. The pages were yellowed with age and the writing was faded, but the words were still legible. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement at the prospect of making this decadent dessert.

I remember asking my own grandmother about the origins of the recipe, hoping to uncover a story or memory that would bring it to life. She smiled and told me that the recipe had been handed down to her by her own grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. The cake had become a family favorite, reserved for special occasions and celebrations.

Eager to try my hand at making Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in my kitchen. The recipe called for rich cocoa powder, creamy butter, and fragrant vanilla extract, among other things. As I mixed and measured, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to the generations of women who had come before me, each one adding their own touch to the recipe.

The cake batter came together beautifully, the aroma of chocolate filling the air as it baked in the oven. I watched through the oven door, anticipation building as the layers rose and turned a golden brown. When the cake was finally done, I carefully removed it from the oven and set it aside to cool.

While the cake cooled, I prepared the rich chocolate frosting that would be spread between the layers and over the top. The frosting was smooth and velvety, the perfect complement to the moist cake beneath. As I assembled the layers and frosted the cake, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at creating something so delicious and special.

When the cake was finished, I cut a slice and took a bite, savoring the rich chocolate flavor and the tender crumb of the cake. It was every bit as delicious as I had imagined, a true testament to the love and care that had gone into making it. I knew then that this recipe would become a treasured part of my own culinary repertoire, a link to the past and a reminder of the generations of women who had come before me.

As I enjoyed a slice of Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake, I thought about the journey that had brought this recipe to me. From my great-grandmother to my grandmother and now to me, each woman had added her own touch and passed it on with love. I felt grateful for the opportunity to carry on this tradition, to create something beautiful and delicious that would be enjoyed by my own family for years to come.

And as I sat at my kitchen table, surrounded by the sweet scent of chocolate and memories of generations past, I couldn't help but smile. For in that moment, I felt a deep sense of connection to my family and the love that had been passed down through the years. And all thanks to Grandma's Chocolate Layer Cake.