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Chocolate Buttermilk Cake with Frosting

Moist, rich, and covered in a silky-sweet chocolate glaze, this Chocolate Buttermilk Cake with Frosting is the kind of dessert that turns an ordinary day into something special.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chocolate, Easy
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 460kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

  • 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup buttermilk
  • 1 package confectioners' sugar (16 ounces, about 3½ cups)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans

Instructions

  • 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  • 2. In a saucepan, melt butter with cocoa powder and water over low heat. Stir until smooth and remove from heat.
  • 3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla. Slowly add in the warm cocoa mixture and whisk to combine.
  • 4. In a separate bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until fully combined.
  • 5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • 6. Meanwhile, prepare the frosting: In a saucepan, heat butter, cocoa, and buttermilk until smooth and just bubbling. Remove from heat.
  • 7. Stir in confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and toasted pecans. Mix until smooth.
  • 8. Pour frosting over the warm cake and spread evenly. Let cool for 20–30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For extra depth of flavor, use Dutch-process cocoa. Skip pecans for a nut-free version. Store covered at room temp or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Nutrition

Calories: 460kcal | Fat: 24g