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Easy Chocolate Cake Recipe for Beginners That Tastes Like Heaven

I still remember the first time I baked this easy chocolate cake. I was standing in a tiny kitchen, hands covered in cocoa powder, convinced I’d mess it all up. But somehow, against all odds (and slightly lopsided oven heat), it came out soft, rich, and glorious. This isn't one of those overly complicated desserts that leave you scrubbing bowls and weeping into your apron. Nope. This one’s for those of us who want cake without the chaos. It’s got everything you want: deep chocolate flavor, a super tender crumb, and yes—no fancy mixers needed. It’s the kind of cake that doesn’t need layers of frosting or decorative flowers to impress. You’ll whip this together faster than you can say 'store-bought who?' and everyone will think you spent hours crafting it. Spoiler alert: you didn’t—and I won’t tell if you don’t.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Cakes
Cuisine: American
Keywords: easy baking recipes, easy cake recipes, easy chocolate cake recipe, easy dessert recipes, quick and easy recipes, simple chocolate cake, sweet easy recipes
Servings: 8 slices
Author: Elena

Ingredients

  • 1 and 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) water
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan. No parchment drama needed—just good old-fashioned grease.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Take your time; lumps are the enemy.
  3. Add in the water, vegetable oil, vinegar, and vanilla. Stir until everything looks smooth and slightly glossy. If it smells chocolatey, you're doing great.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. It’ll look thin—don’t panic, that’s normal.
  5. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. No batter clingers allowed.
  6. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice once fully cool or devour warm—your call.