There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a freshly baked Chocolate Tray Cake wafting through your home, making your mouth water and your heart sing! Imagine biting into a slice that’s rich, moist, and decadently chocolaty. Each bite offers a delightful combination of sweetness and texture, with a soft crumb that melts in your mouth. This cake is not just food; it’s an experience! It’s perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply when you need a little pick-me-up after a long week.
Now, let me take you on a trip down memory lane. I remember the first time I baked this Chocolate Tray Cake for my friends. We were having one of those classic movie marathons—popcorn flying, laughter echoing—and I thought, “Why not add cake to this delightful chaos?” The result was pure magic. My friends devoured it before the credits rolled! Trust me; with every slice of this cake, you’ll be creating sweet memories too.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chocolate Tray Cake is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for bakers of all skill levels
- The rich chocolate flavor is sure to impress everyone at your gathering
- Its visually appealing layers will wow your guests and make any occasion feel special
- Plus, you can personalize it with various toppings or serve it plain for that classic touch
Ingredients for Chocolate Tray Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Use about 2 cups of all-purpose flour for a sturdy yet tender crumb.
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Cocoa Powder: A half cup of unsweetened cocoa powder gives that deep chocolate flavor we crave.
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Sugar: One and a half cups of granulated sugar adds sweetness and balances the bitterness of cocoa.
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Baking Powder: Two teaspoons help the cake rise beautifully, creating that fluffy texture.
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Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors without making it salty.
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Eggs: Three large eggs provide moisture and structure to the cake.
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Milk: One cup of whole milk keeps the batter smooth and adds richness.
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Vegetable Oil: A half cup helps keep the cake moist—because dry cake is just sad!
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Vanilla Extract: Two teaspoons bring warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chocolate Tray Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a tray or rectangular baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper so our cake doesn’t go rogue during the baking process.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout our cake.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until frothy. Combine these wet ingredients into your dry mix gradually while stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth batter.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared tray. Give it a gentle shake to level it out before popping it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool Down
Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve Your Creation
Slice up generous pieces (but who’s counting?) and serve as is or dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate ganache for those extra brownie points!
Enjoy every bite of this Chocolate Tray Cake with friends or family—just don’t forget to save some for yourself!
You Must Know
- This delightful Chocolate Tray Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s an excellent way to impress guests with minimal effort
- Its rich, fudgy texture and easy preparation make it perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual get-togethers
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To whip up that heavenly Chocolate Tray Cake, first preheat your oven while you mix the dry ingredients. Then, combine the wet ingredients separately before folding them into the dry mix to avoid lumps. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean—simple as pie!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Chocolate Tray Cake by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra crunch. Swap out some of the flour for cocoa powder if you crave an even richer flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can elevate the sweetness too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Chocolate Tray Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to bring back that gooey goodness!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always sift your cocoa powder before mixing; it helps prevent clumps and ensures a smooth batter
- Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into your mixture
- If using frosting, let the cake cool completely before applying to avoid melting
I remember the first time I made this Chocolate Tray Cake; my friends devoured it within minutes! Their compliments made me feel like a baking superstar—who knew such magic could come from just flour and chocolate?
FAQs:
What is a Chocolate Tray Cake?
A Chocolate Tray Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with a moist, tender crumb. Typically baked in a rectangular or square tray, this cake is perfect for gatherings or potlucks. The simple preparation and easy serving make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. You can top it with icing, sprinkles, or fresh fruits to enhance its presentation. This cake is versatile and can be adapted with different flavors or add-ins, making it a beloved treat for all chocolate lovers. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert ideas recipe.
How long does it take to bake a Chocolate Tray Cake?
Baking a Chocolate Tray Cake usually takes around 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready! Allow the cake to cool in the tray for about 10 minutes before transferring it to wire racks. This resting time helps the cake set properly and makes it easier to cut into pieces without crumbling.
Can I freeze Chocolate Tray Cake?
Yes, you can freeze Chocolate Tray Cake! To do this, make sure the cake is completely cool before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy your cake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for several hours. You may want to reapply icing or toppings after thawing for the best flavor and presentation.
What are some variations of Chocolate Tray Cake?
Chocolate Tray Cake offers endless possibilities for variations! You can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark, milk, or white chocolate, to alter the flavor profile. Adding ingredients like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit can enhance texture and taste. For an exciting twist, consider incorporating flavored extracts like vanilla or mint into the batter. Additionally, you can try layering with other fillings like caramel or cream cheese frosting between layers for an indulgent treat.
Conclusion for Chocolate Tray Cake:
In summary, the Chocolate Tray Cake is an easy-to-make dessert that brings joy to any occasion. Its rich chocolate flavor and moist crumb make it irresistible to all who try it. With various options for customization and decoration, you can create a unique treat that suits your preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it at home, this versatile cake will surely impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth! Happy baking! For more inspiration, check out this more cake recipes recipe.
Chocolate Tray Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Chocolate Tray Cake is an indulgent dessert that envelops your home with the delightful scent of freshly baked chocolate. This moist, rich cake features a tender crumb and is perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy gatherings. Whether served plain or adorned with frosting, every slice promises a heavenly experience that creates lasting memories.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a rectangular baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until frothy. Gradually combine with dry ingredients while stirring until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (68g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
