Small Chocolate Cake Recipe: A Perfect Treat for One or Two
Are you craving a decadent chocolate cake but don't want a whole massive one? This recipe is perfect for satisfying those chocolate cravings without the leftover guilt! This small chocolate cake recipe is easy to follow, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum chocolatey goodness. It's ideal for a cozy night in, a special occasion, or simply because you deserve a little treat.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed for a small, 6-inch cake, perfect for one or two people. Adjust quantities if you need a larger cake.
- 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter ensures a smooth batter.
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Adjust to your sweetness preference.
- 1 large egg: Provides binding and richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder: The star of the show! Use good quality cocoa for the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: For a light and fluffy texture.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons milk or water: Adjust for desired consistency.
- Optional: Chocolate Ganache or Whipped Cream for topping: Because why not?
Instructions for Baking Your Mini Chocolate Masterpiece:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 6-inch cake pan or a ramekin. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. A hand mixer works best for this step, but you can also do it by hand.
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Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Add Milk/Water: Add the milk or water, mixing until the batter is smooth. The batter should be slightly thick.
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Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, top with your favorite chocolate ganache or whipped cream and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Small Chocolate Cake:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to ensure your cake is fully baked.
- Let it cool completely: This prevents the frosting from melting.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different frostings, fruits, or nuts.
This small chocolate cake recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to adapt it to your preferences by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a different type of extract. Enjoy baking and savoring this delicious treat! Remember to share your baking adventures using #smallchocolatecake on social media!
