Introduction

Indulge in the timeless elegance of Ina Garten’s chocolate cake, a recipe celebrated for its unparalleled richness and moistness. This classic cake has captured the hearts of bakers everywhere. Its intensely chocolatey flavor makes it a favorite for any occasion. Our version stands out with clear, simple instructions, making it easy for anyone to bake.

Why You’ll Love This Ina Garten Chocolate Cake

It delivers a perfectly moist and tender texture that melts in your mouth.
The cake boasts an intense, deep chocolate flavor that will satisfy any chocolate lover.
It’s topped with a silky-smooth frosting that perfectly balances sweetness and richness.
This Ina Garten chocolate cake recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginners.
It’s a guaranteed crowd-plaser, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special celebration.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing Ina Garten chocolate cake:

For the Cake:

1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup cocoa powder
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup hot coffee

For the Chocolate Frosting:

6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), room temperature
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 pinch salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream

Notes & Substitutions

No buttermilk? Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to measure 1 cup. Let it stand for 5 minutes. This simple method for creating a buttermilk substitute is a common culinary trick.
For a richer flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa.
Feel free to use dark chocolate or milk chocolate for the frosting, depending on your preference.
Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for optimal mixing.

Equipment

Two 8-inch round cake pans
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Stand mixer (optional, but recommended for frosting)
Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Here are the step-by-step instructions for Ina Garten’s chocolate cake:

For the cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper discs.
Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the hot coffee until smooth; the batter will be thin.
Divide batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

For the frosting

Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a stand mixer, beat the butter until pale and fluffy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
Whisk the sour cream into the cooled melted chocolate until combined.
Add the chocolate mixture to the butter mixture and beat on low speed until smooth and creamy.

Crumb Coat Tips

A crumb coat seals in loose crumbs for a clean finish.
Apply a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake.
Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up the crumb coat.
Then, apply the final layer of frosting smoothly.

Pro Tips for Success

Measure ingredients accurately, especially the flour and cocoa powder, for best results.
Avoid overmixing the cake batter to prevent a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
Using high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate will significantly enhance the flavor.
Room temperature butter is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy frosting.
Get creative and decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or fresh berries.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your batter seems too runny, don’t worry; it’s supposed to be thin.
To prevent sinking centers, ensure your oven temperature is accurate and don’t open the oven door frequently during baking.
Avoid dry, crumbly cake by measuring flour correctly and not overbaking.
If the cake is sticky, it might not be fully baked; return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
Fix runny frosting by chilling it briefly; curdled frosting can sometimes be smoothed by gently warming it over a double boiler.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations

Serve this Ina Garten chocolate cake plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or alongside fresh berries. Add chocolate shavings for extra flair. For a twist, try different frosting flavors like vanilla, cream cheese, or even peanut butter. Store frosted cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate for up to a week for longer freshness. Unfrosted cake layers can be frozen for up to 2 months. You can also bake this batter as cupcakes or in a sheet cake pan.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a glimpse at the nutritional content per serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	498 kcal
Carbohydrates	67 g
Protein	4 g
Fat	26 g
Saturated Fat	17 g
Cholesterol	57 mg
Sodium	316 mg
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	52 g
Serving Size	1 serving

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a 9×13 inch pan? Yes, you can, but adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness after 30 minutes.
Can this recipe be made into cupcakes? Absolutely! Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? As mentioned earlier, you can easily make a buttermilk substitute with milk and vinegar or lemon juice.
Can I make the cake or frosting ahead of time? Yes, both the cake layers and frosting can be made a day in advance and stored separately.
Is this the exact Ina Garten original recipe? This recipe is inspired by Ina Garten’s classic chocolate cake, with some minor adjustments for clarity and ease. You’ll love this version of the Ina Garten chocolate cake.

Conclusion

This Ina Garten chocolate cake recipe is more than just a cake; it’s a celebration of rich flavor and moist perfection. Its reliability and deliciousness make it a go-to for any baking enthusiast. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to bake a cake that will impress everyone. Share your masterpiece and enjoy the delightful experience!