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Chocolate Sour Cream Cake

This rich and indulgent Chocolate Sour Cream Cake features unparalleled moisture and a velvety texture, thanks to the addition of sour cream, making it perfect for special occasions or a comforting treat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour Use a good quality, unbleached flour.
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Aim for Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper flavor.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar Using a blend of granulated and brown sugar adds depth and chewiness.
  • 2 large eggs Room temperature preferred.
  • 1 cup sour cream Full-fat sour cream yields the best results; Greek yogurt can be a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans generously.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  • In another bowl, beat the granulated and brown sugars with the eggs until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the boiling water. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix!
  • Evenly divide the batter into the prepared pans.

Baking

  • Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Store the cake tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. For added flavor, consider adding espresso powder or different extracts.
Keyword Baking, Chocolate Cake, Comfort Food, Easy Cake Recipe, Sour Cream Cake