Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Frosting

Name: Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Highlighted under: Classic Cooking

I absolutely adore this Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Frosting! Every time I bake it, the rich chocolate aroma fills my kitchen, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste of the batter. The combination of moist chocolate cake and luscious sour cream frosting creates a delightful experience that satisfies my sweet tooth. Whether it's a special occasion or just a craving for something decadent, I find this recipe to be my go-to. Trust me, once you try this cake, you'll want to share it with everyone you know!

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:05:35.293Z

Baking this Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Frosting has become a cherished tradition in my family. I’ve experimented with different frostings, but there's something about the tanginess of sour cream that pairs remarkably with the rich chocolate flavor. The secret is in allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting – this helps the frosting maintain its texture and prevents it from melting away.

One time, I decided to use high-quality cocoa powder, and it made a world of difference in the flavor. The result was a deeper chocolate taste that perfectly complemented the smooth and tangy frosting. It's lessons like these that make baking so rewarding!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy sour cream frosting
Moist and tender cake that stays fresh for days
Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or a cozy night in

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial in achieving the best flavor and texture for your Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Frosting. Opt for a premium unsweetened cocoa powder, as it significantly impacts the cake's chocolate richness. Brands like Valrhona or Ghirardelli offer deep chocolate notes that stand out. Additionally, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; expired leavening agents can result in a dense cake rather than a light, fluffy one.

When it comes to eggs, using room temperature ones will help create a smoother batter, leading to better incorporation of air and moisture. Don't skip the sour cream in the frosting either; it not only adds creaminess but also balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor. If you're in a pinch, Greek yogurt can be a suitable substitute for sour cream, maintaining that tangy flavor.

Lastly, choose whole milk over lower fat options for a richer cake. The fat content helps in creating a moist crumb, making every slice a delightful treat. If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, try using almond milk and a non-dairy cream in your frosting for a similar texture.

Mastering Cake Assembly

As you assemble your cake, ensure that both layers are completely cool to avoid melting the frosting. You can speed up this process by placing the cakes in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes after transferring them to the wire rack. This helps maintain the structure of the cake while you work with the frosting. I find that a serrated knife is perfect for leveling the tops of your cake layers if they have domed during baking.

When frosting, consider using an offset spatula for smooth and even application. Start with a crumb coat, a thin layer of frosting that traps any crumbs, then refrigerate the cake for 15 minutes before adding the final thicker layer of frosting. This technique not only gives a clean finish but also makes for a more polished appearance when serving.

For extra decoration, you can shave chocolate or add fresh berries between the layers or on top of the cake, providing both visual appeal and a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. Experimenting with toppings can create a signature touch to your cake-making!

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
½ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, then mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar, sour cream, vanilla, and cocoa powder. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.

Enjoy Your Cake!

Pro Tips

For extra richness, consider adding chocolate chips to the cake batter before baking. This can enhance the chocolate flavor and provide delightful chocolate bursts in every bite.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can easily prepare your cake layers a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This will help retain moisture and make the cake even more delicious. The sour cream frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember to let it soften for about 30 minutes at room temperature before spreading it on the chilled cake.

If you’re looking to save time, you can freeze the cake layers instead of refrigerating them. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store them in an airtight container. They should keep well for up to three months. When ready to use, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before proceeding with the frosting.

Flavor Variations

While the classic chocolate flavor is undoubtedly irresistible, you can put a twist on this cake by incorporating other flavors. For a mocha variation, add 1-2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder to your boiling water before mixing it into the batter. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee; it's truly a delightful surprise!

If you want to lighten the flavor, consider adding orange or mint zest to the frosting for a refreshing note. A few drops of peppermint extract can elevate your frosting for a mint chocolate cake that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. These variations can take your usual chocolate cake to new and exciting levels!

Questions About Recipes

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or buttercream would also pair nicely with this chocolate cake.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as egg substitutes for a vegan version of this cake.

→ Is it possible to make this as cupcakes?

Yes, you can pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes at the same temperature.