Best Chocolate Cake Recipe - How To Make A Box Cake Better

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 325*. Add parchment paper to 9-inch pans and spray the pans with cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2

Mix together the cake mix and pudding powder until combined.

Step 3

Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. You should scrape down the sides to everything is mixed well. Mix for about 1 minute.

Step 4

Split the batter between the 2 cake pans. Tap them on the counter to spread out the cake mix and get out air bubbles.

Step 5

Bake for about 25 minutes. Poke a toothpick into the center and if it comes out clean - it's done. Add 2 - 3 minutes and check it again until it's cooked completely.

Step 6

Let cool completely before you add the icing.

Step 7

In a standing mixer add the butter, cocoa, hot water, vanilla. Mix for about 1 minute until well combined.

Step 8

Add all the powdered sugar and set the mixer to low.

Step 9

Once all the powdered sugar is mixed in let it whip on high for about 30 seconds until light and fluffy.

Step 10

Let it sit for about 10 minutes and add it to your cake!

Step 11

Add 1 layer of the cake to a plate. Add the chocolate frosting  - be generous!

Step 12

Add the second layer. I like to spoon the icing on top of the cake and spread it around with a butter knife or mini frosting spatula.

Step 13

Pull the frosting down the sides of the cake to cover the sides.

Step 14

Finish the top of the cake and add more frosting.