3-Layer Dark Chocolate Cake Recipe

Name: 3-Layer Dark Chocolate Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups boiling water; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon unstant instant coffee granules (for a more intense flavor use 1 teaspoon); 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup butter, softened; 2 cups white sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 teaspoons vanilla; 4 large eggs

Servings: persons

2 cups boiling water
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon unstant instant coffee granules (for a more intense flavor use 1 teaspoon)
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups white sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 teaspoons vanilla
4 large eggs

1
Set oven to 350 degrees F.
2
Set oven to second-lowest rack.
3
Grease three 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper.
4
In a heat proof medium mixing bowl mix together the boiling water with cocoa powder and coffee granules until completely combined; allow to cool for about 20 minutes or until room temperature.
5
In another bowl sift the flour with baking soda, baking powder and salt; set aside.
6
In a large bowl cream butter with both sugars and vanilla until fluffy.
7
Add in eggs and beat for about 3-4 minutes.
8
Add in the flour mixture alternately with the cocoa mixture until combined.
9
Divide the mixture evenly beweeen the cake pans.
10
Bake for about 25-35 minutes or until cakes test done.

2406

kcal

Calories

180

Fat

191

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 cups boiling water, 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon unstant instant coffee granules (for a more intense flavor use 1 teaspoon), 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, and more.

Yes, 3-Layer Dark Chocolate Cake falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

3-Layer Dark Chocolate Cake

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions