There’s something downright magical about a Chocolate Tray Cake. Imagine a rich, moist chocolate cake that practically melts in your mouth; it’s like a warm hug from your grandma, only sweeter and a lot less judgmental. The aroma wafting from the oven is enough to make you weak at the knees, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to devour a big slice while daydreaming about life’s simple pleasures? For more inspiration, check out this various cake recipes recipe.
I remember the first time I tried baking one of these beauties. I was trying to impress my friends for a movie night, but instead of applause, I got a face-full of flour when my mixer decided to throw a tantrum. Spoiler alert: everyone loved the cake anyway! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, having a potluck, or just feeling like indulging yourself after a long week—this Chocolate Tray Cake is your go-to dessert that never disappoints. For more inspiration, check out this more dessert recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chocolate Tray Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike
- Its deep chocolate flavor will satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings
- Visually appealing with its glossy frosting and soft texture, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to formal celebrations
Ingredients for Chocolate Tray Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; use unbleached flour for better texture.
-
Cocoa Powder: Choose high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor.
-
Baking Powder: This is your leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
-
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake perfectly; feel free to experiment with brown sugar for added moisture.
-
Eggs: They bind everything together and add richness; make sure they’re at room temperature.
-
Milk: Adds moisture; whole milk works wonderfully but feel free to use alternatives if preferred.
-
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender; you can substitute with melted butter if desired.
-
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors; opt for pure vanilla extract if possible.
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). Grab a large baking tray and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper – we want no sticky situations here.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sugar until well combined. The cocoa should be evenly distributed so every bite of your cake tastes like heaven.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. You can pretend you’re auditioning for MasterChef—just don’t forget you’re not actually on TV!
Step 4: Bring It Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want our cake fluffy—not an angry brick!
Step 5: Bake!
Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it evenly. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—no one likes gooey cake unless it’s meant to be!
Step 6: Cool It Down
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. While it’s cooling down (and smelling divine), you can start imagining how you’ll decorate it.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with some extra chocolate sauce or frosting for that perfect finishing touch! Enjoy your delectable creation with friends—and maybe guard those last few pieces like they’re made of gold because trust me; they won’t last long!
You Must Know
- This delightful chocolate tray cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate
- With its rich chocolate flavor and easy preparation, you can whip it up for any occasion, delighting friends and family alike
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that guarantees smiles!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the dry ingredients first to create a solid base. Then, combine everything in a large bowl, mixing until smooth. Pour the batter into your prepared tray and bake for 25-30 minutes until perfectly risen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your chocolate tray cake! Swap out regular flour for almond or gluten-free flour, or add in some chopped nuts for crunch. Want more decadence? Toss in chocolate chips or drizzle with caramel sauce before serving!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover chocolate tray cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if desired.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to sift the dry ingredients together for a lighter texture in your cake
- Always check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting for best results
Sometimes I make this cake just because my friends need cheering up. Their smiles as they take that first bite are priceless, and honestly, it’s hard to keep leftovers around!
FAQs :
What is a Chocolate Tray Cake?
A Chocolate Tray Cake is a deliciously rich and moist cake that is baked in a tray or sheet pan, making it perfect for gatherings. This cake typically features layers of chocolate flavor, often enhanced with cocoa powder or melted chocolate. The ease of serving from a tray makes it a favorite for parties, picnics, and family meals. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, anyone can whip up this delightful dessert to satisfy their chocolate cravings.
How long does it take to make a Chocolate Tray Cake?
Making a Chocolate Tray Cake usually takes about 30 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking. After baking, you may want to let the cake cool completely before frosting or serving it. Overall, you can expect to invest about an hour of your time from start to finish. This quick turnaround makes it an excellent option for last-minute gatherings or when you need a sweet treat in a hurry.
Can I freeze Chocolate Tray Cake?
Yes, you can freeze Chocolate Tray Cake! To do this, allow the cake to cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and frost as desired before serving. This method ensures that your cake remains fresh and delicious even after freezing.
What are some variations for Chocolate Tray Cake?
There are countless ways to customize your Chocolate Tray Cake! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or mix in chocolate chips for extra richness. For a different flavor profile, consider adding espresso powder or peppermint extract. Topping the cake with fruit such as raspberries or strawberries can also brighten up its appearance and flavor. Get creative by experimenting with different frostings like cream cheese or ganache!
Conclusion for Chocolate Tray Cake :
In summary, the Chocolate Tray Cake is an easily adaptable dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity in preparation allows both novice and experienced bakers to create a moist, flavorful treat that everyone will love. Freezing options provide convenience for future enjoyment, while various adaptations enable creativity in flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or as a simple weekday treat, this cake is sure to impress all chocolate lovers!
Chocolate Tray Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Chocolate Tray Cake is a rich and moist dessert that delivers a delightful chocolate experience with every bite. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make cake features a glossy frosting and tender texture, making it the ideal sweet treat for gatherings, birthdays, or just a well-deserved indulgence. With minimal effort, you can create a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk (or alternative)
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a large baking tray by greasing it or lining with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sugar until combined.
- In another bowl, mix eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared tray and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: For added richness, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter. To enhance flavor, try incorporating espresso powder or mint extract.