Rich and Moist Chocolate Cake Recipe for Kids that is easy to make.

Frosting Options:

1. Chocolate Buttercream: Smooth and creamy, a classic choice.
2. Ganache: A rich and glossy chocolate coating made from chocolate and cream.
3. Cream Cheese Frosting: Adds a tangy note that pairs well with the sweetness of the cake.
4. Whipped Cream Frosting: Light and airy, perfect for a less dense option.
5. Peanut Butter Frosting: For a delicious combination of chocolate and peanut butter flavors.

Baking Tips:

1. Use High-Quality Cocoa: For the best flavor, choose a high-quality cocoa powder.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
3. Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
4. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
5. Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Fun Facts:

1. Historical Origins: Chocolate cake dates back to the 18th century when cocoa powder from the Americas was added to traditional cake recipes.
2. Popular Worldwide: Different cultures have their own versions and variations, making it a global favorite.
3. Celebration Staple: Often chosen for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions due to its universally loved flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This is a great step for kids to help with – they’ll love mixing the dry ingredients and seeing the cocoa powder create a rich brown color.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and well combined. Slowly add the boiling water, stirring gently. The batter will be thin – this is normal and helps create a moist cake.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add the cocoa powder and mix until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer over it and frost the top and sides of the cake. Kids can help spread the frosting – it doesn’t have to be perfect; it’s part of the fun!