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Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake

Published: Jun 16, 2025 by Jamie · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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Transform your ordinary dessert into an extraordinary experience with this classic Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake, a recipe that brings nostalgia and pure chocolate bliss to your table.

Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake

This rich, moist chocolate cake represents the pinnacle of home baking – a perfect blend of deep cocoa flavor and tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Every slice tells a story of traditional baking techniques passed down through generations.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a slice of pure comfort, this Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake promises to be the ultimate chocolate lover's dream.

Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake: A Rich Chocolate Masterpiece

More than just a cake, this Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake is a testament to the magic of simple, high-quality ingredients. The buttermilk creates an incredibly soft texture, while the cocoa powder delivers an intense chocolate experience that's both sophisticated and comforting.

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or transformed with your favorite chocolate frosting.

Serving Suggestions:

Elevate your Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake with these delightful pairings:

  • Vanilla bean ice cream
  • Fresh whipped cream
  • Chocolate ganache drizzle
  • Toasted almond slivers
  • Fresh raspberries

Pro Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake:

Cocoa Brilliance: Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the most intense chocolate flavor.

Buttermilk Magic: If you don't have buttermilk, create a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar to 1 cup of milk.

Mixing Mastery: Sift dry ingredients thoroughly to prevent cocoa powder lumps.

Boiling Water Secret: The boiling water helps to bloom the cocoa, creating a deeper, richer chocolate flavor.

Cooling Crucial: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake

Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake Recipe Details:

  • Preparation time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
  • Servings: 12
  • Equipment: Two 9-inch cake pans, mixing bowls, electric mixer

This classic cake represents the heart of home baking – simple ingredients transformed into a truly magnificent chocolate dessert.

Ingredients:

For the Cake Base:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

Optional Enhancements:

  • Chocolate frosting
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Fresh berries for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Carefully prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them thoroughly and lining with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and a perfect cake shape.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Take your time to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed and free of lumps.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are completely smooth and well combined.
  4. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix gently, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
  5. Slowly stir in the boiling water. Don't worry if the batter seems thin – this is exactly how it should look. The boiling water helps to activate the cocoa and create a incredibly moist cake.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Gently tap each pan on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the cakes set and makes removal easier.
  9. Carefully turn the cakes out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key – rushing this step can lead to broken cakes.

Storage Solutions:

  • Store covered at room temperature for 2-3 days
  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days
  • Can be frozen for up to 2 months (wrap tightly in plastic wrap)
  • Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture

Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake will become a cherished recipe in your collection. Its rich, moist texture and deep chocolate flavor prove that sometimes, the most classic recipes are the most delicious!

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Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake

Old Fashioned Chocolate Buttermilk Cake

Print Recipe
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This classic cake represents the heart of home baking – simple ingredients transformed into a truly magnificent chocolate dessert.

  • Total Time: 33 minute
  • Yield: 12 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake Base:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 and ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

Optional Enhancements:

  • Chocolate frosting
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Fresh berries for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Carefully prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them thoroughly and lining with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and a perfect cake shape.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Take your time to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed and free of lumps.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are completely smooth and well combined.
  4. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix gently, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
  5. Slowly stir in the boiling water. Don't worry if the batter seems thin – this is exactly how it should look. The boiling water helps to activate the cocoa and create a incredibly moist cake.
  6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Gently tap each pan on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the cakes set and makes removal easier.
  9. Carefully turn the cakes out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key – rushing this step can lead to broken cakes.
  • Author: Jamie
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

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