Double Chocolate Buttermilk Cake

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If there’s one dessert that never goes out of style, it’s chocolate cake. And this Double Chocolate Buttermilk Cake takes that classic to the next level. Intensely rich, ultra-moist, and packed with real cocoa and chocolate chips, it delivers deep flavor in every bite. The secret weapon? Buttermilk. It adds a tangy note and makes the crumb soft and tender without making it too dense.

This cake is made for serious chocolate lovers. The combination of cocoa powder and melted chocolate chips gives it a complex, layered flavor—not just sweet, but dark and satisfying. Unlike box mixes, this homemade version is simple but delivers a taste that’s noticeably superior.

But don’t be fooled by its depth of flavor—this cake is very straightforward to make. The ingredients are pantry staples, the steps are easy to follow, and it bakes up beautifully every single time. Even beginner bakers can knock this one out of the park.

This is the kind of dessert that steals the show without trying too hard. No frosting is needed (unless you want it), because the cake is that good on its own. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is all it needs.

The buttermilk does more than add flavor—it helps the cake rise and gives it a tender texture that doesn’t dry out. Combined with oil and eggs, it ensures every slice stays moist for days.

It’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, potlucks, or any random Tuesday when you need something indulgent. Serve it warm with coffee or cold from the fridge—it tastes amazing either way.

This cake is also a great make-ahead option. The flavor intensifies the next day, and it keeps beautifully in an airtight container.

If you’re feeding a crowd, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in a sheet pan. Want something fancier? Use it as the base for a layered cake with ganache or whipped cream.

Because there’s no need for frosting, this recipe is perfect when you want big flavor with minimal prep. It’s rustic, rich, and unforgettable.

Add-ins like espresso powder or cinnamon can elevate it even more, but even in its simplest form, this cake delivers.

Kids love it, adults crave it, and it’s one of those recipes people ask you for again and again.

No need for fancy decorations—this cake is all about substance. It’s the kind of dessert that smells like comfort and tastes like celebration.

If you want a chocolate cake recipe that’s easy, reliable, and absolutely packed with flavor, this is your go-to.

Let’s get into the full recipe so you can bake it up today and taste the difference for yourself.

Servings

10–12 servings

Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (melted)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add oil, buttermilk, and vanilla. Mix well.
4. Stir in dry ingredients until just combined. Add hot water slowly, mixing until smooth.
5. Fold in melted chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before serving.
9. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with ice cream if desired.

Tips

• Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
• Don’t skip the buttermilk—it’s essential for moisture and tenderness.
• Let the cake cool before slicing to get clean cuts.
• Add a handful of chocolate chips on top before baking for a bit of texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is all about rich, satisfying chocolate flavor without the need for frosting or extras. The texture is perfectly moist, and the taste is deep and complex. It’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear.

Double Chocolate Buttermilk Cake is the chocolate dessert you didn’t know you were missing. It’s rich, simple, and unbelievably moist, made with ingredients you probably already have. Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to chocolate fix.