Hershey’s Perfect One Bowl Chocolate Cake

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Sink your teeth into the irresistible delight of Hershey’s Perfect One Bowl Chocolate Cake. This recipe promises a symphony of flavors in every bite, combining the simplicity of preparation with the richness of chocolate. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this moist and decadent chocolate cake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the magic of creating this heavenly treat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup light flavored olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (6 ounces)
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking pan(s) by greasing them and lightly flouring with cocoa powder.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add eggs, milk, olive oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
  4. Slowly pour in the boiling water while continuing to mix until the batter is thin and smooth.
  5. Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s) and bake according to the specified times: 35-40 minutes for a bundt cake, 30-35 minutes for 9-inch rounds, or 22-24 minutes for cupcakes. Test with a toothpick for doneness.
  6. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan(s) before frosting.

For the Frosting:

  1. Heat the cream in a saucepan on low heat until steaming, or microwave in a medium-sized glass bowl until simmering.
  2. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips to the hot cream. Let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
  3. Add powdered sugar and cocoa powder to the chocolate mixture, whisking until smooth and glossy.
  4. Pour the frosting over the cooled cake. Serve immediately or refrigerate to chill until the frosting is set.

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Perfect Portions: When serving Hershey’s Perfect One Bowl Chocolate Cake, consider cutting generous slices to satisfy even the most ardent chocolate cravings. Pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
  2. Presentation Is Key: Elevate the visual appeal of your chocolate cake by dusting it with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or garnishing with fresh berries. A final touch of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance to your presentation, making each slice as beautiful as it is delicious.
  3. Room for Variation: While Hershey’s Perfect One Bowl Chocolate Cake is a standout on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative with your serving options. Experiment with different frosting flavors, such as creamy peanut butter or silky caramel, to add a unique twist to this classic dessert.
  4. Storage Solutions: To preserve the freshness of your chocolate cake, store any leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, ensuring it’s tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices for up to 1 month, thawing them in the refrigerator before serving.
  5. Reviving Leftovers: If your cake starts to lose its moisture over time, fear not! Simply warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or gently reheat them in the oven. This will help restore the cake’s soft texture and revive its irresistible chocolatey flavor.

Variations:

  1. Nutty Delight: For a delightful twist, add chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter before baking. The crunch and nutty flavor will complement the rich chocolatey goodness of the cake, creating a truly indulgent treat.
  2. Fruity Infusion: Incorporate your favorite fruits into the cake batter for a burst of freshness and flavor. Consider adding mashed bananas, shredded coconut, or diced strawberries to the mix. Not only will this add a pop of color, but it will also impart a delightful fruity aroma to your chocolate cake.
  3. Espresso Infusion: For coffee lovers, infuse your chocolate cake with a hint of espresso to enhance its deep, rich flavor. Simply dissolve a tablespoon of instant espresso powder in the boiling water before adding it to the batter. The subtle hint of coffee will elevate the chocolatey goodness to new heights.
  4. Zesty Citrus Twist: Add a zesty kick to your chocolate cake by incorporating citrus zest into the batter. Whether it’s orange, lemon, or lime zest, the citrusy aroma will brighten up the rich chocolate flavor and add a refreshing twist to each bite.
  5. Dairy-Free Option: For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, you can easily make this chocolate cake dairy-free by substituting the milk with your favorite non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk. Similarly, opt for a dairy-free frosting using coconut cream or dairy-free chocolate chips for a luscious finish.
  6. Gluten-Free Adaptation: Enjoy the indulgence of Hershey’s Perfect One Bowl Chocolate Cake even if you’re gluten intolerant by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Be sure to check that all your ingredients, including the cocoa powder and baking powder, are certified gluten-free for a worry-free baking experience.
  7. Mini Cupcake Treats: For bite-sized indulgence, bake the batter in mini cupcake liners instead of a traditional cake pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly, and once cooled, top each mini cupcake with a swirl of frosting for adorable and irresistible bite-sized treats.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder for this recipe?
    • Yes, you can substitute dark cocoa powder for regular cocoa powder to intensify the chocolate flavor of the cake. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences.
  2. Is it necessary to use olive oil, or can I use a different type of oil?
    • While light flavored olive oil is recommended for its subtle taste, you can use other neutral oils such as vegetable oil or canola oil as a substitute without significantly affecting the taste or texture of the cake.
  3. Can I omit the boiling water from the recipe?
    • No, the boiling water is a crucial component of this recipe as it helps to activate the cocoa powder and create a smooth, thin batter. Omitting it may result in a denser texture and less flavorful cake.
  4. Can I use a different type of pan if I don’t have a bundt pan?
    • Yes, you can use two 9-inch round pans or line a muffin tin with cupcake liners as alternative options. Adjust the baking time accordingly based on the size and type of pan you choose.
  5. How should I store the frosted cake?
    • Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s tightly covered to prevent the frosting from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
  6. Can I freeze the frosted cake?
    • Yes, you can freeze the frosted cake for up to 1 month. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
  7. Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
    • Absolutely! You can prepare the frosting in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before using, and if needed, you can gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stove to achieve a spreadable consistency.