Easy single layer chocolate cake with buttercream frosting on top!

Looking for a rich, decadent chocolate cake that’s easy to make? This single-layer chocolate cake with buttercream frosting is the perfect solution for your chocolate cravings. Whether you’re celebrating a small occasion or just want a quick homemade dessert, this recipe delivers a moist, flavorful cake with a silky buttercream topping. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. Let’s dive into why this single layer chocolate cake should be your next baking project and an optimized, improved recipe to follow!

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Quick and Easy – No multiple layers or complicated techniques. This single-layer chocolate cake is beginner-friendly and bakes in just one pan.
Moist and Rich Flavor – The combination of buttermilk and hot water ensures a soft, rich texture that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for Small Gatherings – If you don’t need a multi-layered cake, this single layer chocolate cake recipe is ideal for intimate celebrations or a weekend treat.
Easily Adaptable – Turn this into cupcakes, add chocolate chips, or drizzle with ganache for extra indulgence.
Minimal Ingredients – Everything you need is likely already in your pantry!

Easy Single-Layer Chocolate Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed dark brown sugar (light brown sugar works too)
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup buttermilk (room temperature)
⅓ cup vegetable oil
1 large egg (room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup hot water or hot coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)

For the Buttercream Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
2 ½ cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Prepare the Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round baking pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Slowly mix in the hot water or coffee until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour for easier frosting.

Prepare the Buttercream Frosting:

In a stand mixer or large bowl, beat the butter on medium speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add vanilla extract and continue mixing.
Gradually add powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud.
Pour in heavy cream and a pinch of salt, then increase speed to medium-high and beat for 4-5 minutes until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake:

Place a small dollop of frosting in the center of a cake stand or serving plate to hold the cake in place.
Position the cake on top and spread a generous amount of buttercream over the top using an offset spatula.
Smooth out the frosting and decorate with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.
Slice and enjoy the single layer chocolate cake!

Bonus: Turn This Recipe into Cupcakes!

This single layer chocolate cake recipe can easily be transformed into 12-15 cupcakes. Simply divide the batter evenly into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This easy single layer chocolate cake recipe is perfect for any occasion. With a deep chocolate flavor, tender crumb, and luscious buttercream, it’s a foolproof dessert that anyone can master. Whether you make it as a cake or cupcakes, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Happy baking!