One Bowl Chocolate Cake

Best One Bowl Chocolate Cake (2025) – Step-by-Step Guide

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One Bowl Chocolate Cake is here today ! Chocolate cake lovers, this one’s for you! Imagine whipping up a rich, moist, indulgent chocolate cake in just one bowl — no fancy steps, no mess, just pure chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a potluck, or just satisfying a craving, this easy one-bowl chocolate cake recipe has your back.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make the cake step-by-step, discover the best frosting options, storage tips, freezing hacks, and even a few pro tips from home bakers who swear by it. Let’s dig in!

Why One Bowl Chocolate Cake Is a Game-Changer

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No complicated techniques, no mountains of dishes, and no stress. Just you, a mixing bowl, and a few pantry staples coming together to create something magical.

It’s beginner-friendly, quick to make, and practically foolproof. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — perfect as a sheet cake, cupcakes, or layered masterpiece.

One Bowl Chocolate Cake

One Bowl Chocolate Cake

This homemade chocolate cake recipe is super easy to prepare in one bowl for a deliciously moist and fluffy chocolate cake. This is the best chocolate cake I have ever had! Frost with your favorite frosting.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Chocolate Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 160 kcal

Instructions
 

  • 2 cups white sugar
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Notes

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab your biggest mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is well combined.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Toss in the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix on medium speed until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Stir in Boiling Water
Here comes the magic trick — carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will become very thin at this point, but don’t panic. That’s what gives the cake its rich, moist texture.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into your greased cake pans and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the cake cool before frosting — if you can resist.
Keyword chocolate cake, dessert, One Bowl Chocolate Cake

Don’t Worry About the Thin Batter!

Yes, it might look like soup after you add the boiling water. That’s normal. Reviewers swear by it — this step is the secret to a moist and fluffy cake. Trust the process!

One Bowl Chocolate Cake 2025

Best Frostings for One Bowl Chocolate Cake

1. Creamy Chocolate Frosting

Hands down the fan favorite. It’s rich, smooth, and made with just a few ingredients like cocoa, butter, powdered sugar, and milk. Ready in minutes!

2. Classic Cream Cheese Frosting

Tangy, creamy, and a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cake. Great for a more decadent dessert.

3. Buttercream Frosting

Fluffy, sweet, and incredibly easy to flavor or color. Always a crowd-pleaser.

4. Fluffy Peanut Butter Frosting

Want something extra indulgent? This candy-bar-inspired frosting gives Reese’s vibes and is amazing on chocolate cake.

Pro Tip: Mix and match! One Bowl Chocolate Cake with peanut butter frosting and a drizzle of ganache? Yes, please.

Storage Tips: Keeping Your One Bowl Chocolate Cake Fresh

At Room Temperature

If you’re using buttercream, your cake can sit at room temperature for up to 5 days. Just keep it covered with a cake dome or wrap it loosely in plastic wrap.

In the Fridge

Using cream cheese frosting? Pop the cake in the fridge within two hours to keep it fresh and safe.

Can You Freeze One Bowl Chocolate Cake?

Absolutely! Here’s how:

  • Skip the Frosting: Freeze cake layers without any frosting for best results.
  • Double Wrap: First with plastic wrap, then with foil.
  • Label & Store: Add the date and keep in an airtight container.
  • Freeze Time: Up to 3 months.
  • Thawing Tip: Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.

What the Baking Community Says

“This is my go-to chocolate cake recipe. It’s rich, moist, and incredibly easy!” – Kali Hintz

“I used espresso instead of water and dark cocoa. Baked it in a Bundt pan and dusted with sugar. Perfection!” – Verified Reviewer

“I was nervous about the thin batter but wow — fluffy, moist, and made 24 delicious cupcakes!” – Hannah Culbertson

One Recipe, Endless Possibilities

Whether you’re making a casual dessert or a celebration showstopper, this one-bowl chocolate cake fits the bill. Top it with berries, drizzle with caramel, or serve it plain — it’s just that good.

Conclusion

Making a rich, bakery-style chocolate cake doesn’t need to be complicated. With this one-bowl chocolate cake recipe, you’ll wow your guests (or yourself) with minimal effort. So next time that chocolate craving hits, skip the boxed mix and make this homemade delight instead — all in one bowl!

FAQs

1. Can I use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk?

Yes! Any plant-based milk will work fine in this recipe.

2. Can I make this into cupcakes?

Definitely. Just reduce the baking time to about 18-20 minutes and keep an eye on them.

3. What’s the best cocoa powder to use?

Unsweetened natural cocoa is standard, but Dutch-processed works if you want a richer taste.

4. Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter?

Of course! Fold them in just before pouring the batter into the pans.

5. How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Many bakers have done it with success!