1920s Chocolate Cake Recipe: Relive the Magic of the Roaring Twenties

Step back in time and treat yourself to a dessert that has stood the test of time. This 1920s chocolate cake recipe is the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence. With its rich, moist texture and a flavor that transports you to simpler days, this classic cake will become your go-to for celebrations or cozy evenings at home.

What Makes This 1920s Chocolate Cake Special?

Old-fashioned recipes have a unique charm, and this chocolate cake is no different. It’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, yet delivers a flavor that’s anything but basic. Whether you’re baking for a loved one’s birthday or just craving something sweet, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s versatile enough to dress up with frosting or enjoy plain with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this vintage dessert:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water or freshly brewed coffee (for enhanced chocolate flavor)

For the Frosting:

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

How to Make the 1920s Chocolate Cake

Follow these simple steps for a cake that’s as delightful to bake as it is to eat:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your cake batter is smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

To the dry mixture, add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Gradually pour in the hot water or coffee, stirring until the batter is smooth. Don’t worry if it’s thin—that’s the secret to a moist cake!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Whip Up the Frosting

While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer over it. Frost the top and sides of the cake, and garnish with chocolate curls, berries, or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a vintage touch.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula for frosting

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 385
• Fat: 19g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Protein: 4g

Tips for Baking Success

• Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• Enhance the Flavor: Use freshly brewed coffee in place of hot water for a richer chocolate taste.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a dense cake.

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• Durable Non-Stick Cake Pans: Ensures even baking and effortless release.
• Premium Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Elevate your chocolate desserts with top-quality cocoa.
• Electric Hand Mixer: Perfect for achieving smooth batters and frostings.

Related Recipes to Try Next

• Strawberry Earthquake Cake
• Pumpkin Mug Cake Microwave Dessert
• Chocolate Marshmallow Sandwich

1920s Chocolate Cake Recipe

Recreate the charm of the 1920s with this decadent chocolate cake. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, offering a taste of history in every bite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 385 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula for frosting

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 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 pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water or coffee

Instructions

 

• Instructions
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
• Sift dry ingredients into a bowl.
• Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla; mix until combined. Stir in hot water or coffee.
• Divide batter into pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Cool completely.
• Frost with chocolate buttercream and serve.

Keyword 1920s chocolate cake, vintage dessert recipe

Share Your Chocolate Creations!

Ready to bake a piece of history? Try this 1920s chocolate cake recipe and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your photos on social media and tag us for a chance to be featured!