A decadent triple layer chocolate cake made with rich cocoa, layered with creamy chocolate frosting, and perfect for special occasions or indulgent cravings.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 30 minutes
Yield:12-14 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
3 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
1 1/4 cups hot water
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
1/2 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, hot water, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
To make the frosting, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Add powdered sugar and cocoa powder gradually, beating to combine.
Slowly add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and spreadable.
Assemble the cake by spreading frosting between each layer and over the top and sides of the cake.
Chill for 15–20 minutes to set the frosting before serving if desired.
Notes
Use high-quality cocoa powder for best flavor.
Ensure cakes are fully cooled before frosting to avoid melting.
Add chocolate shavings or sprinkles for decoration.