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 minutesmins
Cook Time35 minutesmins
Total Time50 minutesmins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chocolate, Easy
Servings: 12servings
Calories: 460kcal
Equipment
9x13-inch baking pan
Mixing Bowl
Saucepan
Ingredients
For the Cake
1cupbutter(2 sticks)
1/3cupunsweetened cocoa powder
1cupwater
1/2cupbuttermilk
2largeeggs
1teaspoonbaking soda
1teaspoonvanilla extract
2cupsgranulated sugar
2cupsall-purpose flour
1/4teaspoonsalt
For the Frosting
1cupbutter(2 sticks)
1/4cupunsweetened cocoa powder
1/3cupbuttermilk
1packageconfectioners' sugar(16 ounces, about 3½ cups)
1teaspoonvanilla extract
1/2cuptoasted 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.