mee maw's chocolate cake

Mee Maw’s Chocolate Cake

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Mee Maw’s Chocolate Cake Recipe: A Timeless Family Favorite

If you’ve ever craved the ultimate chocolate cake, Mee Maw’s Chocolate Cake is the answer. This recipe has been passed down through generations, loved for its moist texture and decadent frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Follow the detailed steps, tips, and FAQs below to recreate this timeless dessert in your own kitchen.

Ingredients for Mee Maw’s Chocolate Cake

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup black coffee
  • 2 large eggs

For the Frosting:

  • 1/3 cup butter, softened
  • 3 oz unsweetened or semi-sweet chocolate, melted
  • 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

How to Make Mee Maw’s Chocolate Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dry Ingredients

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients to Create the Batter

  1. Add milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, coffee, and eggs to the dry mixture.
  2. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the ingredients together until smooth. The batter will be thin—don’t worry, this ensures the cake stays moist.

Step 3: Prepare the Pans and Bake

  1. Grease and flour two 8- or 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
  2. Divide the batter evenly between the pans.
  3. Bake for approximately 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool the Cakes

  1. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in their pans for 5 minutes.
  2. Gently remove the cakes from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Making the Frosting

Step 1: Combine Frosting Ingredients

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and melted chocolate using a hand mixer.
  2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and sour cream, alternating between the two.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting feels too stiff, add a small amount of sour cream or milk until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 2: Frost the Cake

  1. Place one of the cooled cake layers on a cake plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
  2. Add the second cake layer on top of the frosted base.
  3. Carefully frost the sides and top of the entire cake, ensuring an even and smooth coating.

Tips for the Perfect Mee Maw’s Chocolate Cake

  1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For both the cake and frosting, room-temperature butter and eggs ensure better blending.
  2. Don’t Skip the Coffee: Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, making the cake rich and intense. If you’re not a coffee fan, you can substitute with hot water, but coffee truly elevates the taste.
  3. Cool Completely Before Frosting: Frosting a warm cake will cause the icing to melt and slide off. Patience is key!
  4. Thin Frosting Correctly: If the frosting is too thick, add sour cream or milk one teaspoon at a time to avoid over-thinning.
  5. Decorate for Fun: Sprinkle chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or even chopped nuts on top for an extra touch of elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them, wrapped tightly, at room temperature. Frost the cake on the day of serving for the freshest taste.

2. Can I substitute the sour cream in the frosting?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt or heavy cream as a substitute. Both options will maintain the creamy texture.

3. What’s the purpose of coffee in the recipe?

Coffee enhances the depth of the chocolate flavor. Don’t worry, you won’t taste the coffee itself!

4. Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?

Absolutely! Pour the batter into cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake at the same temperature for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

6. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze both the unfrosted cake layers and the fully frosted cake. Wrap the layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting or serving.

Mee Maw’s Chocolate Cake is more than just dessert—it’s a slice of tradition, love, and timeless flavor. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a sweet indulgence for yourself, this recipe will become your go-to chocolate cake. Enjoy every bite!