Introduction: A Vintage Chocolate Butter Cake Recipe
If you love homemade chocolate cake recipes, this Old-Fashioned Chocolate Butter Cake is a must-try. This charming one-bowl cake is rich, buttery, and perfectly chocolatey—just like something a grandma might have baked decades ago.
The recipe was originally published in McCall’s Magazine in 1910, proving it has stood the test of time. Unlike modern cakes that rely on artificial ingredients and complex techniques, this classic butter cake recipe is simple, easy, and reliable.
This cake has a soft, fluffy texture with a divine chocolate flavor that almost doesn’t need frosting. However, if you’re a true chocolate lover, pairing it with the Perfectly Chocolate Buttercream Frosting (inspired by the classic Hershey’s cocoa frosting) takes it to another level.
Let’s dive into this old-fashioned chocolate cake recipe that’s been winning hearts for over a century!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Butter Cake
✔ Rich, Buttery, & Chocolatey – A perfect balance of butter and cocoa for an indulgent flavor.
✔ Soft & Fluffy Texture – Even though this cake doesn’t rise super high, it remains tender and moist.
✔ Easy One-Bowl Recipe – No complicated steps, just simple ingredients and a hand mixer!
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for birthdays, family gatherings, or afternoon treats.
✔ Pairs with Any Frosting – Enjoy it with chocolate buttercream, vanilla frosting, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
✔ A Time-Tested Recipe – This vintage butter-based cake has been loved for over 100 years!
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Chocolate Butter Cake
This simple chocolate cake recipe requires pantry staples you likely already have:
For the Chocolate Butter Cake:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, sifted – Provides the cake’s base structure.
- 1 ¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and enhances texture.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk – Keeps the cake soft and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the cake’s deep chocolate taste.
- 2 large eggs – Adds structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
For the Classic Chocolate Buttercream Frosting:
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter or margarine, melted – The base for a smooth, creamy frosting.
- ⅔ cup (60g) Hershey’s cocoa powder – Adds a deep, chocolatey richness.
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar) – Creates a smooth and sweet consistency.
- ⅓ cup (80ml) whole milk (plus a few extra drops if needed) – Helps create the perfect frosting texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the frosting.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chocolate Butter Cake
This easy one-bowl chocolate cake recipe comes together in just a few simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
- Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Whisk lightly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Add the softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
- Using a hand mixer, beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, occasionally scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Continue mixing for another 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If your oven has hot spots, rotate the cake pans halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Cool the Cake
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, they are ready to be frosted or served as-is!
How to Make Perfectly Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
This classic chocolate frosting is inspired by Hershey’s cocoa buttercream recipe. It’s rich, smooth, and pairs beautifully with the chocolate butter cake.
Step 1: Melt the Butter & Mix with Cocoa
- Melt the butter in a saucepan or microwave.
- Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth and lump-free.
Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar & Milk
- Using a hand mixer, alternately add powdered sugar and milk, beating on medium speed.
- Continue adding milk a few drops at a time until you reach a spreadable consistency.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla Extract
- Add the vanilla extract and give the frosting one final mix.
- The frosting should be smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
Assembling the Chocolate Butter Cake
- Level the Cakes (Optional) – If the cakes have domed slightly, use a serrated knife to trim the tops for an even surface.
- Frost the First Layer – Place one cake layer on a cake stand or plate and spread a generous layer of chocolate frosting on top.
- Stack the Second Layer – Carefully place the second cake layer on top.
- Frost the Outside – Use a spatula to evenly spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate (Optional) – Garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Serving & Storage Tips
✨ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a glass of cold milk or hot coffee.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Top with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
❄ Storage Tips:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 1 week if needed.
- Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts: The Best Old-Fashioned Chocolate Butter Cake Recipe
This vintage chocolate cake recipe proves that simple ingredients and traditional techniques can produce incredible results. Whether you're baking for a birthday, a special occasion, or just because, this cake will impress every time.
➡ For more delicious cake recipes, follow our Facebook page!
You may also like :
