Chocolate Chip Cake

This Chocolate Chip Cake is a rich and moist dessert layered with velvety cream and loaded with chocolate chips throughout. With its indulgent flavor and stunning presentation, it is the perfect cake for birthdays, celebrations, or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Chip Cake is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of a soft, buttery cake and creamy frosting, generously packed with semi-sweet chocolate chips. It’s easy to make, visually appealing, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is bound to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Whole milk
• Mini or regular semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Heavy whipping cream (for frosting)
• Cream cheese or mascarpone (optional, for a richer frosting)
• Powdered sugar (for frosting)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
9. Prepare the frosting by beating heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and cream cheese or mascarpone until thick and fluffy.
10. Layer the cooled cakes with frosting, sprinkling chocolate chips between layers and on top for decoration.
11. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best results.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12 slices
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling & Frosting Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

• Peanut Butter Twist: Add a swirl of peanut butter into the batter for a nutty flavor.
• Double Chocolate: Use chocolate cake batter instead of vanilla for an extra chocolate punch.
• Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips.
• Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the frosting for a refreshing minty version.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the cake (frosted or unfrosted) for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• To Serve: Let refrigerated cake sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving. Thaw frozen cake overnight in the refrigerator.

FAQs

How do I prevent the chocolate chips from sinking in the batter?

Toss the chips in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter to help distribute them evenly.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, dark chocolate chips work wonderfully for a more intense chocolate flavor.

What’s the best frosting for this cake?

A light whipped cream frosting or cream cheese frosting pairs best with the rich chocolate chips.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Is it possible to use a boxed cake mix?

You can use a vanilla or yellow boxed cake mix and fold in the chocolate chips for a quicker option.

How do I get a smooth frosting finish?

Use an offset spatula and apply frosting in layers, chilling between each layer for a clean look.

What type of chocolate chips should I use?

Mini chocolate chips work best for even distribution, but regular ones are fine too.

Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?

Yes, bake in lined muffin tins for 18–22 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives?

Yes, plant-based butter, milk, and cream cheese can be used to make this cake dairy-free.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Chip Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together classic flavors with an irresistible texture. Perfect for any occasion, it offers a crowd-pleasing balance of sweetness and chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a party or a simple family treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home.