There’s nothing quite like baking a rich, moist chocolate cake from scratch to make any celebration special. Whether you’re gearing up for Halloween or just craving a classic dessert, this chocolate cake recipe is simple, foolproof, and absolutely delicious. We’ll guide you through every step so you can enjoy a homemade treat that’s better than any store-bought version.
Ingredients
To bake a perfectly rich and moist chocolate cake from scratch, gathering the right ingredients is essential. Below we list everything needed for the cake, frosting, and optional Halloween-themed decorations to make your creation festive and fun.
For the Chocolate Cake
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, high quality
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Frosting
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (more if needed for consistency)
Optional Halloween Decorations
| Decoration Type | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Black and orange sprinkles | 1/2 cup | To sprinkle on frosted cake |
| Candy eyeballs | 10-15 pieces | For fun spooky accents |
| Edible glitter | 1 tablespoon | Adds shimmer and magic |
| Small plastic spiders | 4-6 pieces | Place carefully for effect, remove before eating |
| Orange and black food coloring | As needed | For tinting frosting or decorations |
Equipment Needed
To bake our Chocolate Cake Recipe From Scratch Easy Halloween Costumes 2017 successfully, gathering the right equipment before we start is essential. This ensures a smooth baking process and perfect texture in every bite.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For combining dry and wet ingredients separately |
| Electric Mixer | To blend batter smoothly and whip frosting to fluffy peaks |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise measurement of ingredients for consistent results |
| Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer | To aerate flour and cocoa powder, avoiding lumps |
| Rubber Spatula | For folding ingredients gently and scraping down bowl sides |
| 8 or 9-inch Round Cake Pans | Shape the cake layers evenly |
| Parchment Paper | To line pans, ensuring easy cake release |
| Cooling Rack | To cool cakes evenly without sogginess |
| Offset Spatula | For smooth and even frosting application |
| Toothpicks or Cake Tester | Check cake doneness with accuracy |
| Decorating Tools | Piping bags and tips for Halloween-themed frosting designs |
We recommend preparing all these tools before combining ingredients to maintain an efficient workflow and avoid interruptions. Using an electric mixer accelerates blending and helps achieve a velvety batter perfect for our moist, chocolatey cake.
Remember the old baker’s tip:
“Measure twice, mix once.”
Having accurate measuring tools guarantees our cake turns out every time. For an even bake, line the bottom of your pans with parchment paper and grease the sides lightly. After baking, allow the cakes to cool for 15 to 20 minutes in the pans, then transfer them to a cooling rack. This prevents condensation which can affect cake texture.
Our decorating tools are key for transforming the cake with Halloween spirit—use piping bags to create spooky swirls in black and orange frosting, or make fun shapes with candy eyeballs and edible glitter.
By ensuring we have this equipment ready and in good condition, we set the stage to create a delicious and festive cake that will outshine any store-bought version at your 2017 Halloween celebration.
Prep Work
Before we dive into baking our rich, moist chocolate cake from scratch, proper preparation sets the foundation for success. Let’s get everything ready to ensure smooth baking and perfect results.
Preparing the Cake Pans
To achieve perfectly baked layers, Preparing the Cake Pans is crucial. We use two 9-inch round cake pans for this recipe.
- Line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper circles cut to fit perfectly.
- Lightly grease the sides and bottom with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes removing the cake easy.
- For extra assurance, dust a thin layer of flour over the greased surfaces, tapping out any excess. This creates a smooth, non-stick barrier for flawless layers.
Our careful pan preparation helps maintain the cake’s structure and makes release seamless when it’s time to decorate.
| Step | Task | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Line with parchment paper | Prevents sticking and protects pan |
| 2 | Grease thoroughly | Ensures smooth cake release |
| 3 | Lightly dust with flour (optional) | Adds an extra non-stick layer |
Preheating the Oven
We can’t overstate how important the right oven temperature is for baking chocolate cake from scratch. Our recipe calls for a steady 350°F (175°C).
- Preheat your oven at least 15 minutes before baking starts. This ensures the oven reaches the target temperature.
- Use an oven thermometer if possible to verify accuracy; many ovens run hot or cold.
- Place the oven rack in the middle position for even heating and to avoid over-browning the top or bottom.
“Consistent oven heat is the secret ingredient for a perfectly baked chocolate cake every time.”
By preparing our cake pans and preheating our oven properly, we set ourselves up for a delicious Halloween treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Directions
Follow these detailed steps to create our rich and moist chocolate cake from scratch. We will guide you through making the batter, baking it perfectly, and cooling the layers for flawless assembly.
Making the Chocolate Cake Batter
- Sift dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures an even texture and removes lumps.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and pure vanilla extract until smooth.
- Incorporate hot water: Gradually add boiling water to the wet ingredients. This step intensifies the chocolate flavor and helps create a moist crumb.
- Mix wet and dry: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while mixing on low speed using an electric mixer. Beat for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Scrape the bowl: Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. This ensures complete incorporation of all ingredients.
Pro Tip: The batter will be thin due to the hot water, which is perfect for a delicate and moist texture.
Baking the Cake
- Distribute batter evenly: Pour the batter equally into the two prepared 9-inch cake pans. Use an offset spatula to smooth the tops for even rising.
- Bake placement: Place pans on the center rack of the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
- Baking time and testing: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of each cake. When it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
- Avoid opening the oven early: Do not open the oven door in the first 25 minutes to prevent sinking.
- Rotate pans halfway: For even baking, rotate pans 180 degrees around the oven rack halfway through baking.
| Baking Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | N/A | Preheat for at least 15 minutes |
| Bake cake layers | 350°F (175°C) | 30-35 minutes | Rotate pans halfway through |
| Toothpick test | N/A | At 30 minutes | Insert to check doneness |
Cooling the Cake Layers
- Remove from oven: Once baked, hold the pans with oven mitts and transfer them to a cooling rack.
- Let cakes cool in pans: Allow the layers to cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes. This helps the cakes set gently.
- Run a knife around edges: After cooling, run a butter knife around the sides to loosen the cakes from the pans.
- Invert and cool completely: Invert the cakes onto the cooling rack. Peel off the parchment paper. Allow cakes to cool completely, approximately 1 hour, before frosting.
- Avoid stacking warm cakes: Completely cool the layers to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off.
Cooling reminder: Proper cooling is crucial for perfect frosting adhesion and clean cake layers for your Halloween themed decoration.
Frosting and Assembling
This is where our chocolate cake from scratch truly comes to life. The rich frosting and careful assembly will transform our layers into a stunning centerpiece perfect for Halloween celebrations 2017.
Preparing the Frosting
We start by making a luscious, smooth chocolate frosting that complements our cake’s moist texture perfectly. Here’s what we need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 4-6 tablespoons heavy cream or milk, as needed for consistency
Step-by-step:
- Beat the softened butter on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until creamy and pale.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed to avoid powder clouds.
- Add salt and vanilla extract.
- Pour in 4 tablespoons of cream, increase speed to medium-high, and beat for 3 minutes until fluffy.
- Adjust consistency with more cream if needed — the frosting should be spreadable but firm enough to hold its shape.
Pro Tip: For an extra smooth frosting, scrape down the bowl sides intermittently.
Frosting the Cake
Once our cake layers are completely cool to the touch, we are ready to frost.
- Level the cakes if needed by trimming the domed tops using a serrated knife for flat surfaces.
- Place the first cake layer on a cake board or serving plate.
- Spread a thick, even layer of frosting on top (about ½ cup).
- Carefully place the second layer over the first, pressing gently to adhere.
- Apply a thin crumb coat around the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Chill the cake for 20 minutes to set this layer.
- Use an offset spatula to spread the final thick coat of frosting evenly over sides and top. Smooth or create decorative swirls as desired.
Decorating for Halloween
Now for the fun part—transforming our cake into a spooky Halloween treat 2017!
| Decoration Item | Usage Tips |
|---|---|
| Black and orange sprinkles | Sprinkle generously on top and sides for vibrant contrast |
| Candy eyeballs | Strategically place around cake for eerie effect |
| Edible glitter | Dust lightly for a magical shimmer |
| Piping gel or colored frosting | Create spiderwebs, ghosts, or pumpkin faces with piping bags |
| Mini candy corn | Line the base or create patterns |
We recommend chilling the decorated cake for 30 minutes to set all decorations securely before serving.
Halloween Inspiration: Use a toothpick dipped in black frosting to draw spiderweb patterns on the top layer for an authentic Halloween look.
By paying close attention to these Frosting and Assembling steps, our chocolate cake recipe from scratch will become a memorable and irresistible highlight of your Halloween festivities.
Easy Halloween Costume Ideas 2017
When it comes to Halloween 2017, we know how important it is to find easy and creative costume ideas that fit a last-minute schedule. Here are some simple yet effective ways to dress up without the stress.
Simple Last-Minute Costumes
We’ve gathered some quick costume solutions that require minimal supplies but deliver maximum impact:
- Classic Ghost: Grab a white sheet, cut out eye holes, and you’re ready to haunt the night.
- Witch or Wizard: Use a black dress or coat plus a pointed hat. A broom or wand completes the look easily.
- Zombie: Tear some old clothes, add smudged makeup, and you become an undead sensation.
- Cat: Dress in black, draw whiskers with eyeliner, and add cat ears from paper or fabric.
- Mummy: Wrap yourself loosely in strips of white cloth or gauze for an instant undead effect.
These costumes allow us to tap into classic Halloween vibes without requiring much preparation or expense.
DIY Costume Accessories
Crafting DIY Costume Accessories can seriously elevate a simple outfit. Here are some easy-to-create ideas using household items:
| Accessory | Materials Needed | Quick How-To |
|---|---|---|
| Candy Eyeballs | Cotton balls, black marker, glue | Draw pupils on cotton balls and glue onto pins or sticks for spooky eyeball props. |
| Spider Rings | Pipe cleaners, black beads | Shape pipe cleaners into spider legs and attach beads for the body; wear on fingers. |
| Paper Fangs | White cardstock, scissors, glue | Cut triangle shapes, glue to elastic or tape for vampire fangs. |
| Pumpkin Necklace | Orange pom-poms, black string | String pom-poms together to mimic mini pumpkins wearing around your neck. |
| Witch’s Broom | Twigs, a stick, string | Gather twigs and tie them securely to a stick for an instant broomstick. |
These DIY accessories not only add charm but also fit perfectly with our homemade Halloween treats, like our chocolate cake recipe from scratch. Together they create a full festive experience for Halloween 2017.
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure our chocolate cake recipe from scratch turns out perfectly for Halloween celebrations, proper make-ahead preparation is essential. Here are the most effective tips to save time and maintain the cake’s rich, moist texture and festive flair:
1. Bake the Cake Layers in Advance
We recommend baking the cake layers 1 to 2 days before your event. Once baked, allow the layers to cool completely on a wire rack, then tightly wrap each layer in plastic wrap to lock in moisture. Store them at room temperature if the event is within 48 hours or refrigerate for longer storage.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Frosting Ahead of Time
Chocolate frosting can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before frosting the cake, bring the frosting to room temperature and whisk to restore a smooth consistency.
3. Assemble and Decorate on Event Day
For the freshest appearance and to prevent any decorations from wilting or melting, it’s best to frost and decorate the cake on the day of your celebration. This ensures the Halloween-themed candies and edible glitter maintain their vibrant look.
4. Freezing for Longer Storage
If you need to store the cake for over two days, freeze the wrapped cake layers. Use the following chart for freezing guidelines:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Wrap layers | Double wrap with plastic wrap and foil |
| Freeze | Up to 1 month |
| Thaw | Thaw wrapped layers overnight in refrigerator |
| Frosting preparation | Thaw frosting overnight at room temperature |
5. Tips for Moistness and Freshness
“Proper wrapping is the secret to keeping our homemade chocolate cake moist and fresh.”
Use plastic wrap and an additional layer of foil to prevent freezer burn or drying out. When thawing, resist the urge to unwrap too early to avoid condensation affecting texture.
6. Making Decorations Ahead of Time
Halloween decorations like candy eyeballs, edible glitter, and sprinkles can be pre-sorted and stored in small airtight containers. This helps us assemble our spooky decorations quickly during cake assembly.
By following these Make-Ahead Tips we gain more control over our baking schedule without sacrificing the cake’s deliciously moist crumb or festive presentation. This planning creates a stress-free baking experience perfect for our Halloween celebration.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our rich, moist chocolate cake from scratch, we recommend a variety of serving ideas that elevate its taste and fit perfectly with your Halloween celebrations. Here’s how we suggest you serve it with flair and flavor:
1. Temperature and Portioning
- Serve the chocolate cake at room temperature for the best texture and flavor release.
- Cut the cake into even slices about 1 to 1.5 inches thick to ensure balanced servings.
- Use a warm, clean knife to achieve smooth cuts without crumbly edges.
| Serving Detail | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Ideal serving temp | Room temperature (68-72°F) |
| Slice thickness | 1 to 1.5 inches |
| Cutting tool | Warm, clean serrated knife |
2. Complementary Toppings
Enhance the cake with toppings that contrast and complement its chocolate richness:
- Whipped cream lightly sweetened with a touch of vanilla.
- Fresh raspberries or strawberries for a tart, juicy note.
- A sprinkle of powdered sugar or edible Halloween-themed glitter for a festive touch.
- Drizzle with warm caramel or raspberry sauce to introduce an indulgent element.
3. Beverage Pairings
We find these beverages pair wonderfully with our chocolate cake:
- A hot cup of spiced pumpkin latte or chai tea to embrace the Halloween spirit.
- Classic cold milk for a traditional pairing that balances the cake’s richness.
- For adults, a glass of rich red wine or coffee liqueur compliments the chocolate notes superbly.
4. Presentation Tips
To create a spooky and festive ambiance for your Halloween party:
- Plate the slices on matte black or orange plates to match costume colors.
- Add candy eyeballs or mini spiders on top as edible decorations.
- Place the cake beside seasonal accents like small pumpkins, fake cobwebs, or witch’s brooms.
“Serving your homemade chocolate cake with complementary flavors and festive presentation creates a memorable Halloween experience that delights both eyes and palate.“
By following these serving suggestions, we can ensure our easy chocolate cake recipe becomes the centerpiece of your Halloween festivities.
Conclusion
Baking a homemade chocolate cake from scratch adds a special touch to any Halloween celebration. With the right preparation and simple decorating ideas, it’s easy to create a festive dessert that impresses both kids and adults. Pairing your cake with creative costumes and thoughtful serving tips makes the entire experience even more enjoyable.
By planning ahead and using the tips we’ve shared, your Halloween party will be both delicious and fun. Let’s embrace the joy of baking and celebrating together with treats and costumes that bring everyone closer this spooky season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this chocolate cake recipe better than store-bought cakes?
This recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients and step-by-step techniques to create a rich, moist cake that tastes fresher and more flavorful than typical store-bought options.
What are the essential ingredients needed for the chocolate cake and frosting?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, butter, baking powder, baking soda, milk, and ingredients for the frosting like powdered sugar, cocoa, and butter.
How should I prepare my cake pans before baking?
Line pans with parchment paper, grease thoroughly, and optionally dust with flour. This prevents sticking and makes removing the cake layers easier.
Why is preheating the oven important, and how should I do it?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) for at least 15 minutes to ensure even baking. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy and place the rack in the center for the best heat distribution.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
What are some easy Halloween-themed decorations for the cake?
Use black and orange sprinkles, candy eyeballs, edible glitter, and simple piping techniques to create spooky, festive designs easily.
Can I bake the cake ahead of time for Halloween?
Yes, bake layers 1-2 days in advance, prepare frosting up to 3 days ahead, and assemble on the event day for freshness. Freeze for longer storage if properly wrapped.
What tools do I need to bake this cake successfully?
Basic tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a sifter, rubber spatula, round cake pans, parchment paper, cooling rack, and decorating tools.
How should I serve the chocolate cake for Halloween?
Serve at room temperature, slice evenly, and add toppings like whipped cream, fresh berries, or drizzled sauce. Pair with spiced pumpkin lattes or red wine for a festive experience.
What are some last-minute Halloween costume ideas to complement the cake party?
Simple costumes include a ghost, witch, zombie, cat, or mummy. DIY accessories like candy eyeballs, spider rings, and pumpkin necklaces add festive charm quickly.