cake Archives - How To Cook.Recipes

Classic Chocolate Cake Recipe

Megan Miller — Sun, 29 Nov 2020 16:16:54 +0000

Two layers of rich homemade chocolate cake and chocolate buttercream frosting are the perfect way to impress. My kids ask for this for birthdays and on the holidays too. And even though my husband says he isn’t into sweets, you can catch him sneaking slices of this classic chocolate cake recipe.

Best Chocolate Cake Recipe

What makes a homemade chocolate cake the best of all? It’s the moist texture of the cake layers itself. This cake turns out perfectly every time. And that chocolate cake frosting? Oh man! You will be licking the spatula before the kids can come in and ask for it!

Chocolate Cake Ingredients

All-purpose flour – the base of your cake foundation (can be gluten-free!)
Baking powder – gives your cake a leavening boost
Buttermilk – for a nice tang
Baking soda – this is going to react with the buttermilk to make it rise
Cocoa powder – um, hello chocolate cake and frosting!
Vanilla extract – balances the sweetness
Sugar – well, it IS a cake!
Vegetable oil – makes the cake moist
Eggs – binds it all together
Butter – can’t have buttercream without it
Confectioner’s sugar – for the buttercream frosting

Chocolate Buttercream Frosting Ingredients

Cocoa powder – necessary to keep authentic chocolate flavor.
Vanilla extract – balances the sweetness.
Heavy whipping cream – adding in that thick creamy texture goodness.
Butter – can’t have buttercream without it.
Confectioner’s sugar – powdered sugar keeps the frosting sweet and light. A must for any chocolate cake frosting recipe.

Easy Chocolate Cake Recipe

I once used boxed mixes to make my cakes. That all changed when I saw what kind of junk was in it. Sure, cake isn’t healthy, but when you make a homemade chocolate cake recipe from wholesome ingredients, it is a much better way to celebrate a special occasion. And guess what? It only takes 20 minutes to prep it. That’s nothing!

Happiness is eating chocolate cake together.
Anonymous

How do you Make Super Moist Chocolate Cake from Scratch

Making a moist chocolate cake recipe from scratch involves greasing 2 cake pans. Then you’ll make the cake batter and pour it evenly into both cake pans. Let it bake and cool, then make the frosting and frost it up. And now you can celebrate with a slice of perfection!

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chocolate Cake Every Time

When learning how to make chocolate cake step by step these tips will help you out:

Use quality cocoa – Seriously, it makes all the difference in the world. All cocoa is not created equal!
Don’t open the oven until it’s finished – I know, tempting, but leave the cake layers alone until your oven timer dings.
Use vegetable oil in the cake – Trust! It leaves it super-moist inside, just like you want it to be! My husband jokes even the crumbs are moist!

How do you Make Chocolate Cake Super Moist

And yes, as I just mentioned, if you want your cake super-moist, you need to use vegetable oil in the batter. The butter in this recipe is for making the buttercream. I promise making a moist chocolate cake recipe with oil will give you the right texture that won’t be dry and crumbly!

What is the secret to super moist cake?

In this chocolate cake recipe, the secret to getting it so moist inside is using oil. Oil always makes for a moist cake that doesn’t get dry and crumbly.

What kind of chocolate is used for cake?

This simple chocolate cake recipe uses unsweetened cocoa powder. It helps make the perfect cake in taste and texture. Choose unsweetened as there will be plenty of sugar added in to sweeten it to perfection!

What ingredients make a cake moist?

Some people use sour cream, but this recipe gets plenty of tang from the buttermilk. Instead, for a super moist chocolate cake recipe I recommend using vegetable oil to help your cake maintain that moist and heavenly texture.

Why do you add boiling water to chocolate cake?

Adding hot or boiling water to your batter helps dissolve the cocoa powder. This gives it more flavor with fewer lumps for a wonderful taste and texture.

What’s different between chocolate cake and chocolate fudge cake?

With chocolate cake, you get a lighter texture. Meanwhile, chocolate fudge cake is much more dense.

What is the difference between German chocolate cake and regular chocolate cake?

Let’s forget the topping of the German chocolate cake which is a coconut-pecan frosting and just focus on the actual cake. The biggest difference is that in German chocolate cake, it uses a sweetened cocoa that is more subtle in flavor. Regular chocolate cake tends to taste more sugary off the bat.

Can you make gluten-free chocolate cake?

You bet you can! All you need to do is sub the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. Check your labels because some having binding agents in them, which is what you want for this. If it doesn’t have a binding agent, you’ll also need xanthan gum to help hold your cake together.

How Long to Bake Chocolate Cake

At 350F, you’re going to bake your chocolate cake layers for 30 to 35 minutes. Again, refrain from opening the oven door to take a peek. When done, you can use a toothpick to pierce the middle and make sure there is no wet cake batter stuck to the toothpick.

Why is my chocolate cake not dark enough?

Your measurements might be off. Make sure you’re measuring everything precisely in baking as it’s a science. For example, if you don’t measure out enough sugar, you will not get a dark enough color.

What is the best frosting for chocolate cake?

Chocolate buttercream frosting is the best match for chocolate cake. This recipe shows you how to make it yourself which tastes so much better than that store-bought stuff.

However, for birthdays, it’s sometimes decorative roses or sprinkles. Other times, the kids want Oreos on top. You honestly can’t go wrong with classic chocolate cake icing, sprinkles, or piping on pretty designs.

How to Store Chocolate Cake

This chocolate cake has a buttercream frosting which means it needs to be refrigerated. Cover it well with plastic wrap and you can enjoy it for up to a week.

Can you Freeze Chocolate Cake?

Yes, you can freeze chocolate cake. Wrap it well with aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap and it will keep for between 4 to 6 months.

How to Thaw Frozen Chocolate Cake?

It can take several hours to thaw out a frozen cake. You can put it in the fridge overnight and it should be ready for you the next day. Or you can leave it out and wait for it to come up to room temperature.

Watch How To Make Chocolate Cake (Video)

More chocolate cake recipes:

Classic Recipes

Perfect Recipes

Homemade Recipes

Easy Recipes

The post Classic Chocolate Cake Recipe appeared first on How To Cook.Recipes.

Perfect Carrot Cake Recipe

Megan Miller — Sun, 29 Nov 2020 16:04:13 +0000

There’s nothing better than a decadent carrot cake. I used to pick them up from the bakery ages ago. Then I used boxed mixes. And then, I discovered how easy it was to make from scratch. This family favorite classic carrot cake recipe comes out amazingly every single time. Once you make it, you’ll see for yourself!

Best Carrot Cake Recipe

This is the best carrot cake recipe because it has two layers and comes out so moist. The best thing about a layer cake is that it allows you to add a delicious layer of frosting right through the middle of the cake. It adds great texture and taste. Everything is balanced, and with that cream cheese frosting, oh man! Everyone wants the recipe!

Carrot Cake Ingredients

All-purpose flour – your cake base
Sugar – both light brown and granulated for the best flavors
Eggs – binder for your carrot cake mix
Applesauce – choose unsweetened since there’s plenty of sugar in the recipe
Baking powder and baking soda – the key to moist cake that rises to the occasion
Spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves bring out the best in this cake
Carrots – the star ingredient
Walnuts – for the signature nuttiness
Full fat cream cheese – do not skimp on the fat here
Butter – choose unsalted or else your frosting will be weird
Confectioner’s sugar – powdered sugar to sweeten your frosting just right

Easy Carrot Cake Recipe

Making carrot cake is easier than you think. It takes only a few steps to make a homemade carrot cake recipe. Don’t let the ingredient list frighten you. It really comes together so quickly. In 30 minutes, you’ll be popping this simple carrot cake recipe into the oven!

In this house, carrot cake counts as a vegetable.
Anonymous

How do you Make Carrot Cake moist from Scratch

First you’ll take all the wet ingredients plus the sugars and combine them. Then in another bowl, you’ll combine everything dry. You’ll fold those together, add the carrots and walnuts, and then pour it into the cake pan. See? That’s easy! You’ll let it cool completely and then make your cream cheese frosting. Then it’s ready to go!

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Carrot Cake Every Time

Finely grated carrots – Utilize the smallest setting to grate your carrots. You don’t want large chunks.
Cool the cake – Make sure your homemade carrot cake has cooled before you go anywhere near it with the cream cheese frosting. Otherwise it will melt into a big mess.
Add plenty of spices as the recipe suggests – It’s not only aromatic but perfect for the flavor. That being said, make sure your spices on your spice rack haven’t been sitting there for years. It can ruin the taste.

Is carrot cake better with oil or butter?

Oil is the secret to keeping the texture of your carrot cake moist within.

Why do you put oil in carrot cake?

Oil makes carrot cake stay moist. Of course, you could use butter which will lend it a richer taste but the oil will keep it moist and avoid that dry and crumbly texture.

Must I peel carrots for carrot cake?

Yes, you must peel them before shredding them. If not, your cake will come out with a bitter flavor.

How do you peel carrots for carrot cake?

Simply use a peeler, and then grate them on the finest setting to get them to the right size and texture.

What is the trick to moist cake?

The secret to moist carrot cake is oil. It is what I use in my moist carrot cake recipe to provide the perfect texture. The best moist carrot cake recipes use a well-balanced ratio of oil and flour to result in a moist texture.

Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil in carrot cake?

Yes, you can certainly use olive oil in the batter for your carrot cake if you’d prefer or if it’s all you’ve got.

Does carrot cake need nuts?

Nuts are great because they add flavor and texture to your carrot cake. They’re traditionally used, particularly pecans and walnuts. However, if you hate nuts or have an allergy, it’s perfectly fine to omit them.

Is carrot cake better with pecans or walnuts?

Both pecans and walnuts compliment carrot cake well. You can use them as you wish. in this recipe we use a blend of both, however some people omit the nuts because they don’t like them or they have a nut allergy.

What is carrot cake icing made of?

Carrot cake icing is made from cream cheese, butter, confectioner’s sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. It’s important that you use full fat cream cheese to have that desired richness in taste and texture.

How do you make cream cheese frosting from scratch?

You’ll mix the cream cheese and butter together using a hand mixer on medium speed. When it’s smooth, add the confectioner’s sugar one cup at a time followed by the heavy cream a tablespoon at a time. Finally, you’ll add the vanilla extract and salt and blend until smooth.

How do you thicken cream cheese frosting for carrot cake?

The simplest and most efficient way to thicken the cream cheese frosting up is to pop it in your fridge for about 5 or 10 minutes. The frosting will firm up in there.

Best Frosting and Toppings for Carrot Cake

Nothing is better than cream cheese frosting for carrot cake. That tang and zip is perfect with the spiced ingredients in the cake itself. Top it with walnuts and pecans arranged in any pattern you choose!

How Long to Bake Carrot Cake

You’re going to bake your carrot cake for 20 to 24 minutes at 350F. That’s plenty of time to get it just the right texture without drying it out. You can always use a toothpick in the center to make sure the cake batter is not under-cooked.

Why is my carrot cake dry?

There might be many reasons why your carrot cake is dry. When something is off with the gluten content in the batter, it can come out dry. So too can not using oil, over-baking, or over-mixing. Follow this recipe exactly and you will not have dry carrot cake.

Can you make carrot cake the night before?

While it doesn’t take that long to make a carrot cake, you can make it ahead of time. Just make the cake and refrigerate it. You will decorate it when you’re getting closer to serving it so don’t make the frosting until then.

How to Store Carrot Cake

Carrot cake must be stored in the fridge. If it’s not sliced, you can cover it and keep it for up to a week. But if it’s sliced, plan on eating it within 3 days.

Can you Freeze Carrot Cake?

Of course you can freeze carrot cake! Make sure you wrap it up well and it should keep for 2 to 3 months.

How to Thaw Frozen Carrot Cake?

All you have to do is remember to move it from the freezer to your fridge overnight. In 24 hours, it will be ready to serve. From there, you can take the cake out of the refrigerator and allow it to warm up to room temperature if you don’t like to eat it chilled.

Watch How To Make Carrot Cake (Video)

More carrot cake recipes:

Classic Recipes

Perfect Recipes

Homemade Recipes

Easy Recipes

The post Perfect Carrot Cake Recipe appeared first on How To Cook.Recipes.

Classic Homemade Cheesecake Recipe

Megan Miller — Fri, 02 Oct 2020 06:36:23 +0000

For the holidays or when guests come for dinner, I have to make the perfect cheesecake recipe. No one believes it’s made from scratch. They think I picked up a New York cheesecake from the bakery. But why would I do that when it takes only 9 ingredients I can pronounce to bake this one? Trust me, this is worth every bit of effort for your next special occasion!

Best Cheesecake Recipe

There are so many original cheesecake recipes out there, but I think this is the best cheesecake recipe because it comes out so rich, creamy, and smooth, melting in your mouth with every heavenly bite. You can then feel free to serve it your way and theme it for a holiday or go for broke with a rich chocolate ganache!

Cheesecake Ingredients (Graham Cracker Crust above, Cheesecake below)

Cream cheese – make sure you use the full fat version at room temperature so it comes out nice and rich!
Sour cream – helps soften the cheese texture and adds essential moisture with just a hint of sourness.
Eggs – how else can you get that exquisite light and fluffy yet fully creamy and smooth texture?
Sugar – for a balance of sweetness.
Lemon juice – the contrast of acidity is what brings the flavors together.
Graham cracker crust – a graham cracker cheesecake crust adds the buttery and crunchy texture that is the perfect match for that smooth and rich, creamy cheesecake filling.

Easy Cheesecake Recipe

I used to think the only easy cheesecake recipe was one that was no-bake, but this baked cheesecake recipe is just as easy. You’ll want to plan ahead to make it the day before you serve it, but your actual hands-on time with it is minimal and the rewards and abundant when you make this cheesecake. Cheesecake does not have to be complicated, and this simple cheesecake recipe is meant to help you nail it on your first try!

Is cheesecake difficult to make?

Cheesecake isn’t very hard to make, though if you’ve never made it before, it may look difficult. With this recipe, it takes you through the steps one by one so you will make your first cheesecake from scratch and have it come out amazing.

How to Make Cheesecake

It all starts with a signature graham cracker crust. You could cheat and buy one ready-made but you might risk burning it. It’s better to make your own and pre-bake it. Then comes the filling. You’ll get it ready, taking care not to overmix it, then submerge your cheesecake into a water bath as it slowly bakes. Mostly, it’s about being patient and waiting so fill your time with other things and before you know it, your cheesecake is ready!

How do You Make Cheesecake from Scratch?

Making cheesecake from scratch is all about following the steps below. You only need 9 ingredients, most of which I’m betting you’ve already got on-hand. All you need is a springform pan, large mixing bowl, and a rubber spatula, plus time on your hands, and you can make this heavenly cheesecake from scratch.

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cheesecake

Do not overmix! – The best advice for your cheesecake to come out perfectly is not to overmix it. As you’re creating your mixture, follow the steps and once you add the last egg, don’t overdo it. It’s ready to go!
Water bath is key – The water bath is an essential component that cooks the cheesecake without browning the outside. It keeps the texture rich and creamy, exactly how you want your cheesecake so that with every bite, you can’t help but moan in delight!

What soft cheese is used for cheesecake?

These cheese that makes cheesecake legendary is none other than cream cheese. You can use your favorite brand as long as you use the full-fat version.

Can I leave sour cream out of cheesecake?

It depends on the recipe. This recipe calls for sour cream which will add a softening effect to the texture of the cream cheese while adding moisture.

What is the difference between regular cheesecake and New York cheesecake?

With regular cheesecake, the ingredients called for are heavy cream and sour cream. It results in a bit of a silkier and creamier texture. New York cheesecake recipe is truly special because it’s heavy with cream cheese that gives it such a dense texture. The flavor comes from sour cream and lemon juice for a tang that is unmistakable.

Is cheesecake better baked or not?

It all depends on your preferences. When you bake a cheesecake, the texture is velvety, rich, and dense. No-bake cheesecakes tend to have a more light and airy feel to them.

What is the best temperature to bake cheesecake?

The best temperature for baking cheesecake is 350F. It requires patience and waiting, but this slower method produces some of the most amazing melt-in-your-mouth results ever.

How do I make sure my cheesecake doesn’t crack?

If you’re going to bake a cheesecake, the best way is by using a cheesecake water bath. This ensures it cooks evenly without cracking or drying out so you get that rich and wonderful texture.

What is the water bath method or cheesecake?

For a classic cheesecake recipe, you will prepare your cheesecake in a springform pan and then set this pan in a large roasting pan. This helps cook the cheesecake to that perfect, creamy texture.

Is a water bath necessary for cheesecake?

There are certainly recipes that create cheesecake successfully without a water bath. Some involve baking while others are no-bake versions. This classic cheesecake recipe is done with a water bath and requires it for your best results.

Can you make a cheesecake without a springform pan?

Yes, you can! Though for this cheesecake recipe, you should use a springform pan to help get it out of in perfect condition.

How Long to Bake Cheesecake

With this method of making cheesecake, you will want to bake it in an oven preheated to 350F for a minimum of 55 minutes on up to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s time when the center is almost set. Once it is, you’ll shut off your oven but leave the cheesecake in there in its water bath with the door slightly ajar so it can cool for an hour.

Why is my cheesecake browned on top?

If your cheesecake has browned on top, then it’s likely you’ve overcooked it. Always follow the directions to the recipe to have it come out perfectly.

Why is my cheesecake not creamy?

When making cheesecake, you should let your cream cheese come to room temperature. This way, it combines well with the other ingredients and leaves you with a creamy and delightful texture.

What makes a cheesecake dense or fluffy?

New York style cheesecake has a dense texture. With recipes that don’t use a water bath, you can create this density. For fluffy, it’s all about separating the yolks, adding them one at a time, and then whipping the whites and adding them in.

I always carry a knife in my purse you know, in case of cheesecake or something.
Anonymous

Best Cheesecake Toppings

Cheesecake toppings are where you can use your creativity and really add to the flavor profile. You can put just about anything on top of your cheesecake. You can also leave it plain and have toppings on the side so that guests can choose their favorite way to enjoy it. I find this makes everyone happy. I always serve hot chocolate sauce, fresh berries, mixed berry coulis, warm caramel, sprinkles, and whipped cream though feel free to come up with whatever excites you too!

Can You Freeze Cheesecake?

Yes, freezing a cheesecake is totally fine. Plus, you can keep it in your freezer for up to a month. Freeze it whole or cut it up into slices. Cheesecake is probably one of the best make-ahead desserts because it freezes so well. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap to remove the excess air and then again in aluminum foil.

How to Reheat Frozen Cheesecake

In my home, we love our cheesecake chilled. But if you’d prefer it warmed or want to thaw a single piece from the freezer to indulge with, heating it for up to 20 seconds at a time should do the trick!

Watch How To Make Cheesecake (Video)

More cheesecake recipes:

Classic Recipes

Perfect Recipes

Homemade Recipes

Easy Recipes

The post Classic Homemade Cheesecake Recipe appeared first on How To Cook.Recipes.

cake Archives - How To Cook.Recipes

Classic Chocolate Cake Recipe

Best Chocolate Cake Recipe

Chocolate Cake Ingredients

Chocolate Buttercream Frosting Ingredients

Easy Chocolate Cake Recipe

How do you Make Super Moist Chocolate Cake from Scratch

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chocolate Cake Every Time

How do you Make Chocolate Cake Super Moist

What is the secret to super moist cake?

What kind of chocolate is used for cake?

What ingredients make a cake moist?

Why do you add boiling water to chocolate cake?

What’s different between chocolate cake and chocolate fudge cake?

What is the difference between German chocolate cake and regular chocolate cake?

Can you make gluten-free chocolate cake?

How Long to Bake Chocolate Cake

Why is my chocolate cake not dark enough?

What is the best frosting for chocolate cake?

How to Store Chocolate Cake

Can you Freeze Chocolate Cake?

How to Thaw Frozen Chocolate Cake?

Watch How To Make Chocolate Cake (Video)

Classic Chocolate Cake Recipe

Ingredients

Equipment

Method

Nutrition

Private Notes

Tried this recipe?

More chocolate cake recipes:

Classic Recipes

Perfect Recipes

Homemade Recipes

Easy Recipes

Perfect Carrot Cake Recipe

Best Carrot Cake Recipe

Carrot Cake Ingredients

Easy Carrot Cake Recipe

How do you Make Carrot Cake moist from Scratch

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Carrot Cake Every Time

Is carrot cake better with oil or butter?

Why do you put oil in carrot cake?

Must I peel carrots for carrot cake?

How do you peel carrots for carrot cake?

What is the trick to moist cake?

Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil in carrot cake?

Does carrot cake need nuts?

Is carrot cake better with pecans or walnuts?

What is carrot cake icing made of?

How do you make cream cheese frosting from scratch?

How do you thicken cream cheese frosting for carrot cake?

Best Frosting and Toppings for Carrot Cake

How Long to Bake Carrot Cake

Why is my carrot cake dry?

Can you make carrot cake the night before?

How to Store Carrot Cake

Can you Freeze Carrot Cake?

How to Thaw Frozen Carrot Cake?

Watch How To Make Carrot Cake (Video)

Perfect Carrot Cake Recipe

Ingredients

Equipment

Method

Nutrition

Private Notes

Tried this recipe?

More carrot cake recipes:

Classic Recipes

Perfect Recipes

Homemade Recipes

Easy Recipes

Classic Homemade Cheesecake Recipe

Best Cheesecake Recipe

Cheesecake Ingredients (Graham Cracker Crust above, Cheesecake below)

Easy Cheesecake Recipe

Is cheesecake difficult to make?

How to Make Cheesecake

How do You Make Cheesecake from Scratch?

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cheesecake