Description
This perfectly sized 6-inch chocolate cake is the ideal solution for satisfying intense cravings without the waste of a large sheet cake. Featuring a deep, cocoa-rich flavor and a moist, velvet-like crumb, this recipe is designed for reliability and ease. The addition of buttermilk ensures a perfect lift, while optional espresso powder elevates the chocolate notes to bakery-quality heights. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned baker, this quick, single-layer treat offers a professional-grade dessert experience that is ready for any occasion.
Ingredients
1/2 cup (63g) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (21g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup (60ml) buttermilk, room temperature
4 ounces (113g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
Grease a 6-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, espresso powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the oil, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
Slowly stir in the buttermilk into the wet mixture.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
While the cake cools, heat the heavy cream until just simmering and pour over the chopped chocolate.
Let the chocolate sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth to create the ganache and spread over the cooled cake.
Notes
Ensure all cold ingredients like eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature to prevent the batter from seizing. Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain the moist crumb. Using high-quality cocoa powder significantly impacts the intensity of the chocolate flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg