Delia Smith All In One Chocolate Cake Recipe

The Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake is a classic, easy-to-make chocolate cake that delivers a rich, moist texture with minimal effort. As the name suggests, all the ingredients are mixed together in a single bowl, making it a perfect choice for beginners or anyone short on time. This cake is soft, chocolatey, and finished with a delicious chocolate buttercream frosting, making it a delightful treat for birthdays, gatherings, or any occasion.

What is Delia Smith’s All-In-One Chocolate Cake?

Delia Smith’s All-In-One Chocolate Cake is a straightforward recipe where all the ingredients are combined in one bowl to create a smooth batter. This method simplifies the cake-making process, resulting in a fluffy, moist cake with a deep chocolate flavor. Topped with a classic chocolate buttercream frosting, it’s a go-to chocolate cake recipe that’s versatile, easy, and always crowd-pleasing.

Other Popular Recipes

• Delia Gluten Free Chocolate Cake
• Mary Berry Mars Bar Cake
• Delia Smith Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: One-bowl mixing, minimal prep.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The cocoa powder gives a deliciously deep chocolate taste.
• Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the all-in-one method.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Great for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you crave chocolate.
• Beginner-Friendly: Simple ingredients and steps, ideal for all skill levels.

Ingredients Needed to Make Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake

For the Cake

• 175g Self-Raising Flour: Provides structure and helps the cake rise.
• 175g Caster Sugar: Sweetens and balances the cocoa’s bitterness.
• 175g Unsalted Butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture.
• 3 Large Eggs: Binds ingredients and provides structure.
• 1 ½ tsp Baking Powder: Ensures a light, fluffy texture.
• 40g Cocoa Powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor.
• 3 tbsp Milk: Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender.

For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

• 100g Unsalted Butter (softened): Forms the base of the frosting.
• 175g Icing Sugar: Sweetens the buttercream and creates a smooth texture.
• 2 tbsp Cocoa Powder: Adds chocolate flavor to the frosting.
• 2 tbsp Milk: Makes the frosting spreadable and creamy.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.

Instructions to Make Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake

Step 1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bases with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2. Combine All Ingredients for the Cake

In a large mixing bowl, add the self-raising flour, caster sugar, softened butter, eggs, baking powder, cocoa powder, and milk. Using an electric mixer, beat everything together for about 2 minutes until smooth and fully combined. The batter should be thick and creamy.

Step 3. Divide and Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4. Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 5 minutes, then turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 5. Make the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the icing sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well after each addition. Add the milk and vanilla extract, then beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 6. Assemble and Frost the Cake

Place one of the cake layers on a serving plate. Spread a layer of chocolate buttercream over the top, then place the second cake layer on top. Use the remaining buttercream to frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing with a spatula for an even finish.

What Goes Well With Delia Smith’s All-In-One Chocolate Cake

• Fresh Berries – Adds a tart contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that complements the deep cocoa flavor.
• Whipped Cream – Light and airy, perfect with the dense cake.
• Coffee or Espresso – Enhances the chocolate’s richness.
• Caramel Drizzle – Adds a sweet, buttery flavor.
• Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle on top for extra texture and flavor.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake

To ensure your chocolate cake turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps the batter mix smoothly and evenly.
• Sift the Cocoa Powder – Sifting prevents lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light, tender crumb.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – This prevents the frosting from melting on the cake.
• Add Extra Milk to the Frosting if Needed – Adjust consistency to make spreading easier.

Easy Variations of Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake

Try these variations to customize your chocolate cake:

• Add Orange Zest – A touch of orange zest in the batter for a citrusy twist.
• Use Espresso Powder – Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Top with Chocolate Ganache – Replace the buttercream with a rich chocolate ganache.
• Add a Layer of Jam – Spread raspberry or strawberry jam between the layers for added sweetness.
• Sprinkle Sea Salt – For a gourmet touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the frosting.

Best Practices to Store Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake

• Store at Room Temperature – Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for Longer Freshness – The cake will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze Individual Slices – Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Keep Covered to Prevent Drying – This helps maintain the cake’s moisture.

Best Practices to Reheat Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake

• Microwave Individual Slices – Heat for 10-15 seconds for a warm, soft texture.
• Oven Reheat – Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and warm for 5-10 minutes.
• Add Fresh Frosting – If desired, add a small amount of fresh buttercream for a creamy finish.

How Can I Make Delia Smith’s All-In-One Chocolate Cake Healthier?

• Reduce Sugar – Use less caster sugar in the batter or a sugar substitute.
• Add Whole Wheat Flour – Substitute half of the self-raising flour with whole wheat for added fiber.
• Use Dark Chocolate Powder – Choose cocoa powder with a higher percentage of cocoa.
• Add Fruit Toppings Instead of Frosting – Use fresh berries or fruits as a healthier topping.
• Replace Butter with Greek Yogurt – Substitute half the butter with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 28g

FAQs

Can I Make Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake Without Self-Raising Flour?

Yes, if you don’t have self-raising flour, you can make Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake by using all-purpose flour and adding 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder per 150g of flour. This will help the cake rise and achieve the same light texture.

How Do I Keep Delia Smith’s All-In-One Chocolate Cake Moist?

To keep Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake moist, make sure not to overbake it. Bake just until a skewer comes out clean. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature, or refrigerate it if stored for more than 3 days.

Can I Freeze Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Delia Smith’s All-In-One Chocolate Cake. Once fully cooled, wrap each slice or layer in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Can I Use Cocoa Powder Instead of Melted Chocolate in the Frosting?

Yes, cocoa powder works well in the frosting for Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake. Sift 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the icing sugar to avoid lumps, and add more milk if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.

Final Words

The Delia Smith All-In-One Chocolate Cake is a classic, no-fuss recipe that delivers a moist, rich, and delicious chocolate cake. Perfect for any celebration or to satisfy chocolate cravings, this cake combines simplicity with elegance. Enjoy each slice with your favorite toppings and savor the deep, chocolatey flavor!

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