Description

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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.