This Easy One-Bowl Chocolate Cake is a rich, moist, and flavorful dessert that comes together effortlessly using just one mixing bowl. With deep cocoa flavor and a smooth coffee-infused frosting, it’s the ideal treat for birthdays, holidays, or any time you’re craving homemade chocolate cake without the mess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. It delivers a decadent chocolate cake with minimal cleanup and no complex steps. The addition of hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, while buttermilk ensures a moist, tender crumb. Topped with a luscious cocoa-coffee frosting, this cake is guaranteed to become a household favorite for all occasions.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

2 cups white sugar
2½ cups flour
4 tablespoons cocoa powder
1½ teaspoons baking soda
1½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs (room temperature)
1 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup hot coffee
1 cup vegetable oil

For the Icing:

½ cup butter (softened)
½ cup cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
½ tablespoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons coffee

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, combine all cake ingredients: sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla, hot coffee, and vegetable oil.
Mix until the batter is smooth and well blended.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the icing, beat together softened butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla, and coffee until smooth and fluffy.
Once the cakes are fully cooled, frost with the coffee-cocoa icing.
Slice and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 to 14 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 45 minutes
Total time: Around 1 hour and 30 minutes

Variations

Espresso Flavor Boost: Use espresso instead of regular coffee for a bolder chocolate taste.
Mocha Layers: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or coffee whipped cream between cake layers.
Chocolate Chips: Stir in mini chocolate chips to the batter for added texture.
Sheet Cake Option: Bake in a 9×13-inch pan for a quick single-layer version.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free buttermilk (plant milk with lemon juice) and a dairy-free butter substitute.

storage/reheating

Store the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap individual slices or whole unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw, leave at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds if you prefer warm cake.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Buttermilk is recommended for its acidity and moisture, but you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk.

What does the coffee do in the cake?

Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed coffee?

Yes, dissolve 1–2 teaspoons of instant coffee in hot water and use in place of brewed coffee.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Can I bake this as cupcakes?

Yes, divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18–22 minutes.

Is the frosting very sweet?

The frosting is rich and sweet; you can adjust the sugar to taste or balance with a pinch of salt.

How do I keep the cake moist?

Store properly in an airtight container and don’t overbake it. The buttermilk and oil also help retain moisture.

Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cake layers in advance and freeze or refrigerate them until ready to frost.

Can I make it without eggs?

Use a suitable egg substitute like applesauce or commercial egg replacers, though texture may vary slightly.

How can I decorate it beyond the icing?

Add chocolate shavings, cocoa powder dusting, or fresh berries for a beautiful finish.

Conclusion

This Easy One-Bowl Chocolate Cake delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Moist, rich, and topped with a smooth coffee-cocoa frosting, it’s the ultimate homemade dessert for any chocolate lover. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or a casual treat, this dependable recipe ensures a delicious outcome every time.