Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Frosting

Name: Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I absolutely love baking, and this Chocolate Cake With Sour Cream Frosting has become one of my all-time favorites. The rich, moist chocolate cake combined with the tangy, creamy frosting offers an unforgettable flavor experience. Every time I make this cake, friends and family rave about it, and I've watched it become a go-to for birthdays and special occasions. With this recipe, you’ll impress everyone with minimal effort—perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:15:34.641Z

When I first attempted this chocolate cake, I was skeptical about using sour cream in the frosting. However, the result blew me away! The sour cream adds an unexpected creaminess that balances out the sweetness perfectly, making every bite rich and satisfying. I remember the first time I served it; everyone couldn't stop talking about how unique it tasted!

To elevate the flavors even further, I often add a pinch of espresso powder to the cake batter. It intensifies the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. Trust me, this little detail transforms the cake into something truly special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor that's perfectly balanced
Lush sour cream frosting adds a unique twist
Moist texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a moist and flavorful chocolate cake lies in the ingredients. The combination of all-purpose flour and unsweetened cocoa powder creates a light yet rich base. Using high-quality cocoa is crucial; it significantly enhances the cake's chocolate flavor. Ensure that the cocoa powder is not expired, as stale cocoa may lead to a muted taste. Whole milk adds richness, while vegetable oil keeps the cake moist. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using almond or coconut milk and a vegetable oil blend.

When it comes to the frosting, sour cream is an essential ingredient that brings both creaminess and a pleasant tang to balance the sweetness of the powdered sugar. The unsalted butter should be softened but not melted; too much heat can cause the frosting to become too runny. If you'd like a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based butter substitute along with coconut cream for added richness. Remember to sift the cocoa powder with the powdered sugar to prevent lumps, ensuring a silky-smooth frosting.

Baking and Assembling Tips

To achieve the perfect bake, be sure to preheat your oven thoroughly; an unheated oven can lead to uneven baking. You can test the temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure accurate results. When pouring the batter into the pans, aim for an even distribution. You might want to use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially if you're scaling the recipe up. To avoid domed cakes, make sure not to overmix the batter. This cake's batter should be mixed just until combined for uniform texture.

For assembly, it's crucial to let the cakes cool completely before frosting them. Warm cake layers tend to break, leading to a messy presentation. To help level your cakes, use a serrated knife or a cake leveler. When spreading the frosting, use an offset spatula for smooth application. If you want to achieve a rustic look, use a simple swirling motion instead. For an extra touch, consider decorating the top with chocolate shavings or fresh berries to enhance the cake's visual appeal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you begin:

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Make sure everything is at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chocolate cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.

Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, sour cream, vanilla, and cocoa powder, and mix until smooth and fluffy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread frosting on top, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve to delighted friends and family. Enjoy every bite!

Don't forget to save some for yourself!

Pro Tips

For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted cake or sprinkle with chocolate shavings.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate Cake with Sour Cream Frosting can be a great make-ahead dessert option. Both the cake layers and frosting can be prepared a day in advance. Store the unfrosted cake layers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer a longer shelf life. When you're ready to frost, simply allow the layers to reach room temperature before applying the frosting to ensure a better adhesion.

If you're looking to store leftover cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to lock in moisture, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For long-term storage, you can freeze individual slices or the whole cake after frosting it. Use a double layer of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this cake is delightful as is, there are fun variations you can try. For an indulgent twist, add chocolate chips or pieces of your favorite chocolate bar into the batter for added texture. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of coffee to the boiling water; it will enhance the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee. You could also substitute the sour cream in the frosting with cream cheese for a more tangy and rich frosting experience.

Serving suggestions abound for this cake. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Consider serving it alongside fresh berries for a pop of color and acidity that offsets the cake’s richness. For more festive occasions, drizzle some chocolate ganache over the top for an elegant finish that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, you can use buttercream or cream cheese frosting if you prefer.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative I can use?

You can use almond milk and coconut cream in place of milk and sour cream for a dairy-free version.