Name: Hershey's Chocolate Cake: Indulge in Moist, Rich Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (spoon-and-level method for measurement); 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (adjust for less sweetness if desired); ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (sift before use); 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder (ensure freshness); 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt (balances sweetness); 2 large eggs eggs (room temperature); 1 cup whole milk (or non-dairy substitute); ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (use pure extract); 1 cup boiling water (do not skip this step); ½ cup softened butter (room temperature); ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (sift for smooth consistency); 3 cups powdered sugar (add gradually); ¼ cup milk (adjust thickness as desired); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for flavor enhancement)

As the sun dipped below the horizon, a familiar aroma drifted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. That comforting smell can only mean one thing: Hershey’s Chocolate Cake is in the making! This rich and moist dessert doesn’t just evoke nostalgia; it’s a fantastic way to celebrate any occasion with friends and family. With its simple preparation and deeply satisfying chocolate flavor, Hershey’s Chocolate Cake is the crown jewel of homemade desserts. It’s a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that every slice brings smiles all around. Depending on your mood, feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your tastes! What delightful twist will you add to make it your own?

Why is Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Irresistible?

Rich, Decadent Flavor: Each bite is a burst of intense chocolatey goodness that tempts every chocolate lover.

Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal skills and common pantry ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.

Endless Customization: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips, creating a gluten-free version, or even topping it with peanut butter frosting for a fun twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a birthday, celebration, or just a sweet craving, this cake always garners compliments and happy faces.

Timeless Classic: This cake is not just a treat; it’s a memory maker, just like the Oatmeal Chocolate Chip and Maraschino Cherry Chocolate treats that beckon fond memories.

Get ready to impress with Hershey’s Chocolate Cake—your new go-to dessert!

Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake; remember the spoon-and-level method for precise measurement.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; feel free to cut back a bit for a less sweet option.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Delivers that deep chocolate flavor; sift first to avoid lumps for a smoother batter.
• Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a lovely, light texture; check that it’s fresh for best results.
• Baking soda – Helps the cake rise alongside acidic ingredients; use both baking powder and soda for the best lift.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor; it’s essential for giving depth to the cake.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add moisture; opting for room temperature eggs helps in better mixing.
• Whole milk – Adds richness and moisture; you might try buttermilk or a non-dairy substitute for variations.
• Vegetable oil – Ensures the cake stays moist; melted butter brings extra flavor if you prefer.
• Vanilla extract – Introduces warmth that complements the chocolate; always choose pure extract for superior taste.
• Boiling water – Thins the batter for even baking; don’t skip it, as it enhances the chocolate cake experience.

For the Frosting
• Softened butter – Creates a creamy frosting; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor to the frosting; sift to keep the consistency smooth.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and adds that fluffy texture; add gradually until desired sweetness is reached.
• Milk – Helps achieve a creamy consistency; adjust the amount based on how thick you like your frosting.
• Vanilla extract – Elevates the frosting flavor; just a splash goes a long way in enhancing its richness.

Enjoy crafting your Hershey’s Chocolate Cake with these carefully selected ingredients! Each element works together to create a dessert that’s not just delicious, but also truly unforgettable.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hershey’s Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your two 9-inch round cake pans. Grease the pans with butter or cooking spray and dust them with flour to prevent sticking. This step ensures your layers will release easily after baking, setting you up for success as you embark on making your Hershey’s Chocolate Cake.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 and ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 and ½ cups of granulated sugar, ¾ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 and ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 and ½ teaspoons of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined, creating the foundation for a delicious, rich chocolate cake.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add 2 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to the bowl with your dry ingredients. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it’s smooth and well blended. This step ensures that your cakes will be moist and flavorful, embodying the signature Hershey’s Chocolate Cake essence.

Step 4: Incorporate Boiling Water
Carefully stir in 1 cup of boiling water to the batter. It will appear thin, but that’s perfectly fine! This addition is crucial as it helps activate the cocoa and creates a batter that bakes into a moist and tender cake. Mixing it thoroughly allows the rich chocolate flavor to shine through your Hershey’s Chocolate Cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Evenly pour the chocolate batter into the prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. While your cakes bake, the delightful aroma of chocolate will fill your kitchen!

Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling time is crucial before frosting the cakes, allowing them to firm up and making it easier to achieve a smooth frosting finish.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While your cakes cool, prepare the frosting by creaming together ½ cup of softened butter, ⅓ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 3 cups of powdered sugar, and ¼ cup of milk in a mixing bowl. Beat the mixture until it is creamy and spreadable, around 2-3 minutes. This luscious frosting will beautifully complement your Hershey’s Chocolate Cake.

Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Evenly spread a generous layer of frosting on top of this layer, then carefully top with the second cake layer. Use the remaining frosting to ice the top and sides of the cake. Don’t worry about perfection; the homemade look is part of the charm of your Hershey’s Chocolate Cake!

How to Store and Freeze Hershey’s Chocolate Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.

Fridge: To extend freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake well-wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy a slice warm, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, making sure not to dry it out.

What to Serve with Hershey’s Perfectly Chocolate Chocolate Cake

As you prepare this heavenly cake, imagine a delightful spread that complements its rich flavors and invites everyone to indulge.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a cool contrast to the warmth of the cake, enhancing the chocolate experience beautifully.
Fresh Berries: Sweet and tart, fresh raspberries or strawberries provide a vibrant pop of color and a refreshing balance to the cake’s richness.
Chocolate Ganache: A glossy layer of ganache drizzled on top elevates the cake further, adding an ultra-decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a fluffy texture, providing an excellent contrast to the dense chocolate layers.
Espresso or Coffee: Brew a strong cup of coffee or espresso to serve alongside the cake, intensifying the chocolate flavor with each sip and awakening the senses.
Chocolate Milk: For a nostalgic touch, serve a chilled glass of chocolate milk, delighting both children and adults with its creamy sweetness.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves sprinkled on the plate bring a refreshing touch, brightening the palate and enhancing the overall presentation.
Chocolate Sprinkles: A shower of colorful sprinkles adds a fun, celebratory flair, making each slice feel like a festive treat.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over individual slices for an unexpected twist that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s rich chocolate notes.

With these delightful pairings, your Hershey’s Perfectly Chocolate Chocolate Cake will surely be the centerpiece of memorable gatherings and sweet moments!

Make Ahead Options

Hershey’s Chocolate Cake is ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising flavor! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake your cakes, let them cool completely, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This will help maintain their moisture and keep the flavors intact. Additionally, the frosting can be made up to 3 days ahead—store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just frost the chilled layers and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. With these make ahead options, you’ll enjoy a deliciously rich dessert with minimal last-minute fuss!

Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around and make this chocolate cake even more delightful with these easy tweaks!

Chocolate Chips: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra melty bites of chocolate in every slice. This adds to the cake’s moistness and makes it irresistibly indulgent!
Gluten-Free: Substitute 1:1 gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free version. Your guests won’t even know it’s gluten-free!
Molten Lava Cake: Create a molten chocolate cake by adding a tablespoon of chocolate ganache in the center before baking. This twist delivers an ooey-gooey center that chocolate lovers crave.
Peanut Butter Frosting: Top the cake with creamy peanut butter frosting instead of classic chocolate icing for a playful yet delicious flavor pairing. The rich, nutty taste beautifully complements the chocolate.
Coffee Kick: Enhance the chocolatey flavor by replacing the boiling water with freshly brewed coffee. It deepens the chocolate notes and might just awaken your taste buds!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in a cup of crushed nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor. The crunchiness pairs beautifully with the moistness of the cake.
Coconut Dream: Mix in ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist. This sweet addition contrasts perfectly with the chocolate and gives your cake a fun, chewy texture.
Spicy Chocolate: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the batter for a subtle spicy kick. This unexpected element can elevate your cake to an entirely new level of flavor.

Feel free to try these variations or create your own unique spins! If you’re in the mood for something different, consider whipping up some Chocolate Peanut Butter or indulging in a classic Cheese Pound Cake for another crowd-pleasing dessert!

Expert Tips for Hershey’s Chocolate Cake

Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake tender and light. Stir just until combined, ensuring it’s perfectly fluffy.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and milk helps create a smooth batter, promoting a better rise for your Hershey’s Chocolate Cake.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s time to cool the cakes!
Cool Before Frosting: Always let your layers cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish on your cake.
Choose Quality Cocoa: Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for an intense chocolate flavor that elevates your cake to bakery-level deliciousness.

Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for Hershey’s Chocolate Cake?
For this recipe, all-purpose flour is recommended as it provides the right structure and texture. Be sure to use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement to prevent a dense cake.

How should I store Hershey’s Chocolate Cake?
Store your Hershey’s Chocolate Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze Hershey’s Chocolate Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bring it to room temperature before serving.

What if my chocolate cake sinks in the middle?
A sinking chocolate cake can happen for a few reasons. It’s often due to overmixing the batter or not baking long enough. To prevent this, mix just until combined and always check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make this chocolate cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum, or add some to help replicate the structure of gluten in the cake.

Are there any allergenic ingredients in Hershey’s Chocolate Cake?
This cake contains common allergens such as eggs, milk, and wheat. If you’re baking for someone with specific food allergies, you might want to explore egg replacements, non-dairy milk options, and gluten-free flour to make a safe alternative.