Mee Maw’s Chocolate Cake

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Whisk these ingredients until they are thoroughly combined. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly, ensuring a uniform rise.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• Buttermilk
• Vegetable oil
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and fully combined. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature—they blend more easily and help create a tender crumb.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently with a hand whisk or a spatula. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense cake. Gradually add the hot water or coffee, stirring until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin—that’s normal and helps the cake stay moist.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling completely prevents the frosting from melting.

Step 6: Make the Chocolate Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, cream the butter until smooth.
2. Add cocoa powder and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
4. Stir in vanilla extract for added flavor.

For an ultra-smooth finish, you can use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on your serving plate.
2. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides evenly.
4. Decorate with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or a dusting of cocoa powder if desired.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

For best results, chill the cake for 30–60 minutes before slicing. This allows the frosting to set and makes for cleaner slices.

Serve with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for the ultimate comfort treat.

Tips for Mee Maw’s Perfect Chocolate Cake

• Use high-quality cocoa powder: The flavor of the cake depends on it.
• Coffee enhances chocolate: Even if you don’t want a coffee taste, hot coffee makes chocolate flavor richer.
• Room temperature ingredients: Helps the batter mix evenly and prevents curdling.
• Do not overmix: Overmixing develops gluten and can make the cake tough.

Mee Maw’s Chocolate Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a slice of family history. Every bite is moist, tender, and rich, with frosting that perfectly balances sweetness and chocolate depth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a homemade treat, this cake is a timeless recipe that never disappoints.

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