Chocolate Tray Cake is like a sweet hug from your childhood, bringing back memories of birthday parties and family gatherings where the only drama was deciding who got the biggest slice. Imagine a moist, rich chocolate cake that’s so delightful it makes you wonder if Willy Wonka himself had a hand in its creation. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and making your mouth water in anticipation of that first indulgent bite. For more inspiration, check out this popular cake recipes recipe.
This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual Tuesday or a festive holiday gathering. Each slice is a celebration on its own, with layers of soft chocolate goodness that melt in your mouth. If you’re looking to impress friends or simply indulge in some deliciousness, this Chocolate Tray Cake will take center stage and leave everyone wanting more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chocolate Tray Cake requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor
- Its rich, fudgy texture satisfies any chocolate lover’s cravings
- Visually, it looks stunning adorned with sprinkles or fresh berries, making it a showstopper at any event
- You can easily customize the toppings to suit your taste or occasion
Ingredients for Chocolate Tray Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure, use a good quality flour for best results.
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Cocoa Powder: Choose unsweetened cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor; it’s essential for that intense taste.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake perfectly; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
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Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise and achieve that fluffy texture we all love.
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Baking Soda: A crucial ingredient that works with baking powder to create a light and airy cake.
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Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors in the cake and balances the sweetness.
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Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for optimal mixing and moisture content.
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Milk: Whole milk adds richness; feel free to use any milk you prefer but avoid non-fat if possible.
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Vegetable Oil: This keeps the cake moist; you can substitute with melted butter if desired.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor of your cake beautifully.
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
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a trusty baking tray and grease it lightly with some oil or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This dry mix is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and creamy—like an inviting hug for your dry ingredients!
Step 4: Bring It Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake light and fluffy rather than tough!
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Transfer the batter into your prepared baking tray evenly. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (unless you want an excuse to eat some raw batter… just kidding!).
Step 6: Cool and Decorate
Once baked to perfection, allow your Chocolate Tray Cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting or decorating as you please. Consider using chocolate ganache or a simple dusting of powdered sugar for that extra flair.
Transfer to plates and serve with whipped cream or fresh berries for an irresistible finishing touch! Enjoy every last crumb of this moist and decadent Chocolate Tray Cake; believe me when I say it won’t last long on your dessert table!
You Must Know
- This delightful Chocolate Tray Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane
- Perfect for gatherings, this cake brings everyone together, making it the highlight of any occasion
- Easy to make and even easier to devour!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, mix your dry ingredients first, then cream the butter and sugar before adding in eggs. Finally, blend in your chocolate mixture for the perfect Chocolate Tray Cake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chocolate type based on your preferences – dark, milk, or even white chocolate! Add nuts for crunch or a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet twist that will elevate your Chocolate Tray Cake.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Chocolate Tray Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a warm treat!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always sift your dry ingredients to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth batter
- Be careful not to overmix when combining wet and dry ingredients; this keeps your cake light and fluffy
- Let the cake cool completely before icing to prevent melting
Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about the first time I made this Chocolate Tray Cake—it was a surprise birthday party, and watching everyone indulge in each slice brought me so much joy!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Chocolate Tray Cake?
To make a delicious Chocolate Tray Cake, you’ll need basic baking ingredients such as all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, eggs, milk, and butter. Additionally, you can enhance flavor by adding vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. For frosting options, consider using chocolate ganache or buttercream. These ingredients come together to create a rich and moist cake that everyone will love. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
How long does it take to bake Chocolate Tray Cake?
Baking a Chocolate Tray Cake typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, the exact time may vary based on your oven and the thickness of the batter in the tray. It’s essential to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready to be taken out of the oven.
Can I store leftover Chocolate Tray Cake?
Yes, you can store leftover Chocolate Tray Cake! To keep it fresh, place any uneaten portions in an airtight container. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for about a week. If you want to preserve it longer, consider freezing slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag; they can last for up to three months.
Can I customize my Chocolate Tray Cake?
Absolutely! Customizing your Chocolate Tray Cake is simple and fun. You can add various mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts directly into the batter. Consider incorporating flavors such as espresso powder for added depth or using different frostings like cream cheese or peanut butter frosting. Toppings like sprinkles or fresh fruits can also enhance its appearance and taste.
Conclusion for Chocolate Tray Cake :
In summary, making a Chocolate Tray Cake is straightforward and rewarding. By gathering simple ingredients and following the baking steps outlined above, you can create a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. Remember to check your cake regularly while baking and feel free to customize it according to your preferences. Whether you enjoy it plain or with frosting, this treat will surely impress everyone who tries it!
Chocolate Tray Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Chocolate Tray Cake is a nostalgic delight that evokes fond memories of childhood celebrations. This moist, rich chocolate cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect centerpiece for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With its fudgy texture and customizable toppings, every slice offers a burst of chocolatey goodness that will leave your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking tray or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, combine eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared tray and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before frosting or serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
