Chocolate cake is a beloved dessert, but sometimes you just want a smaller portion for an intimate gathering or a cozy night in. This small chocolate cake recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without leaving you with too many leftovers. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or simply indulging in a personal treat, this cake is sure to impress.

Nutritional Value

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the nutritional value of this small chocolate cake. This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, making it ideal for small gatherings. Each serving contains roughly:

• Calories: 220-250
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so feel free to adjust them to fit your dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 6-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined.

Add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated.

Pour in the buttermilk and mix well.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.

Add the cocoa powder and mix until combined.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until you reach your desired consistency.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake. You can decorate it with chocolate shavings or sprinkles if desired.

Variations

This small chocolate cake recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are some variations you might consider:

• Chocolate Ganache: Replace the frosting with a rich chocolate ganache for an extra decadent treat.
• Add Ins: Fold in chocolate chips or nuts into the batter before baking for added texture.
• Flavored Frosting: Experiment with different flavored frostings, such as mint, peanut butter, or cream cheese.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary.

2. How can I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

4. How can I make this cake vegan?

You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use a plant-based milk in place of buttermilk. Additionally, choose vegan butter for the frosting.

This small chocolate cake recipe is an excellent way to indulge in a delightful dessert without making a large batch. With its rich flavor and customizable options, it’s perfect for any occasion. So grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a delicious slice of homemade chocolate cake! Enjoy!