The Famous Pinterest Chocolate Cake

The Famous Pinterest Chocolate Cake

Introduction

If you’ve spent any time browsing Pinterest, you’ve likely come across the infamous “Famous Pinterest Chocolate Cake.” Known for its rich, moist texture and deep chocolate flavor, this cake has taken the internet by storm. Loved by home bakers and food bloggers alike, it’s celebrated for being easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a dinner party, or just because, this cake is sure to impress.

The History

While the exact origin of the recipe is unclear, this chocolate cake gained viral fame on Pinterest around the mid-2010s. It was shared and reshared across platforms, praised for its simplicity and decadent taste. Many believe it’s a modern twist on classic chocolate layer cakes, possibly inspired by Southern baking traditions. The recipe’s accessibility and foolproof nature made it a staple in many households, cementing its place in internet baking lore.

Ingredients Breakdown

This cake uses everyday pantry ingredients, which is part of its appeal. The key components include:

• All-purpose flour – Provides the structure of the cake.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with texture.
• Cocoa powder – Gives the cake its rich chocolate flavor.
• Baking soda – Helps the cake rise and creates a tender crumb.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s structure.
• Milk – Adds moisture and richness.
• Oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender without making it dense.
• Boiling water – A secret ingredient that enhances the chocolate flavor and ensures a moist texture.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
4. Mix well until smooth.
5. Gradually stir in the boiling water (batter will be thin).
6. Pour the batter into two greased 9-inch round cake pans.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.

Tips

• Use room temperature eggs and milk for a smoother batter.
• Don’t skip the boiling water—it’s crucial for the cake’s texture and flavor.
• To prevent overmixing, stop mixing once the ingredients are incorporated.
• Let the cakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
• Frost only when the cakes are completely cool to avoid melting the frosting.

Variations and Customizations

This cake is highly adaptable. Here are some creative twists:

• Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
• Swap half the flour for almond flour for a nutty twist.
• Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangy richness.
• Make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Add 1/2 cup of sour cream for a denser, more moist texture.
• Turn it into a marble cake by swirling in a few tablespoons of vanilla batter.
• Make cupcakes by filling lined muffin tins and baking for 18–22 minutes.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While this cake is a treat and not meant to be a health food, you can make modifications to suit dietary needs:

• Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier fat option.
• Replace regular sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower glycemic index.
• Use unsweetened almond milk to reduce calories and fat.
• Top with a Greek yogurt-based frosting for a protein boost.

Per slice (based on 12 servings), the original recipe contains approximately:

• 350–400 calories
• 15–20g carbohydrates
• 4–5g protein
• 18–22g fat
• 20–25g sugar

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and well combined.
4. Gradually stir in the boiling water. The batter will become thin—this is normal.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before removing and placing on wire racks to cool completely.
8. Frost with your favorite chocolate or buttercream frosting and serve.

FAQ

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled cake layers in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Why is the batter so thin?
The addition of boiling water thins the batter, but it helps develop a soft, moist crumb and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Can I use a different pan size?
You can use a 9×13-inch rectangular pan. Bake time may increase slightly, so check after 35 minutes.

What frosting pairs best with this cake?
Classic buttercream, chocolate ganache, or cream cheese frosting all work beautifully.

Summary

The Famous Pinterest Chocolate Cake is a rich, moist, and easy-to-make dessert that has captured the hearts of bakers worldwide. With its deep chocolate flavor and tender crumb, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.