Here’s a rich and indulgent Chocolate Squares Cake recipe that you can make at home:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (240 ml) boiling water
- 1 cup (240 ml) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- ¾ cup (90 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2½ cups (300 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the boiling water and cocoa powder until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the sugar, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, followed by the cocoa mixture. Beat until the batter is smooth and well combined.
2. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cocoa powder, followed by the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
- Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If it’s too thick, add more cream; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has completely cooled, trim the edges for a neat finish. Cut the cake into squares.
- Generously spread the chocolate frosting over each square using a spatula. For an extra touch, you can pipe a decorative swirl on top of each square or add sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.
5. Serve:
- Arrange the chocolate squares on a serving platter. These cake squares are perfect for parties, potlucks, or an indulgent treat with coffee or tea. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Tips:
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for the frosting.
- Add a layer of your favorite jam or fruit compote between the cake and frosting for a unique twist.
This Chocolate Squares Cake is a decadent and satisfying dessert that’s easy to make and share. Enjoy the rich chocolate flavor and soft, moist texture!
