Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 6-inch cake pan with non-stick spray and parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and baking powder.
Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then add the milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid overmixing.
Add Hot Coffee: Gradually pour in the hot coffee (or water), mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin, but this ensures a moist cake.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool Completely: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Optional Toppings and Frosting Ideas
Classic Chocolate Buttercream: “Rich and creamy, perfect for spreading or piping.”
Dusting of Powdered Sugar: “A simple but elegant touch.”
Ganache Drizzle: “Decadent and glossy for a luxurious finish.”
Tips for Baking the Perfect Small Chocolate Cake
Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: “This makes a noticeable difference in the cake’s flavor.”
Don’t Overmix: “Overmixing can make the cake dense. Stir until just combined.”
Check for Doneness: “Baking times can vary, so use a toothpick to test. It should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Chocolate Cake
Can I Make This Cake Without Eggs?
Answer: Yes, you can substitute the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Answer: Cover tightly and keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I Double the Recipe for a Larger Cake?
Answer: Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use an 8-inch pan, adjusting the baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Final Thoughts: “This small chocolate cake recipe is perfect for those moments when you need a quick chocolate fix or want to celebrate something special without the hassle of a full cake.”
Call to Action: “Give this recipe a try and share your experience in the comments below. We’d love to see how you make it your own!”