Easy Desserts for a Crowd: 1 Simple Chocolate Cake Recipe

Name: Easy Desserts for a Crowd: 1 Simple Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup chocolate chips

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

When it comes to entertaining, I believe that having a delicious dessert ready for a crowd can truly elevate any gathering. That’s where this delightful dessert comes into play! It’s not just easy; it’s a chocolate lover’s dream, perfect for serving up to 12 hungry guests without breaking a sweat. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for birthdays, potlucks, or even just a cozy family get-together.

What I love most about this dessert is how it manages to be both simple and indulgent. Picture this: rich, moist chocolate cake that’s incredibly easy to whip up, yet it impresses everyone with its decadent flavor. And the best part? You can make it all in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your guests’ company. Seriously, who doesn’t love a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen but actually took less than an hour from start to finish? Let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser!

easy desserts for a crowd - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this easy dessert for a crowd truly shine! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted to remove lumps and aerate for a lighter cake)
1 cup granulated sugar (for that perfect touch of sweetness)
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted for smooth incorporation)
1 teaspoon baking powder (to help the cake rise)
1 teaspoon baking soda (works with the acidity of the buttermilk for a fluffy texture)
1/2 teaspoon salt (to enhance the flavors)
1 cup buttermilk (adds moisture and richness)
1/2 cup vegetable oil (for a moist crumb)
2 large eggs (room temperature for better mixing)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for a lovely aroma)
1 cup boiling water (this step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture!)
1 cup chocolate chips (for those pockets of melty chocolate throughout)

Trust me, using these fresh ingredients will make all the difference in your dessert. It’s super easy to find everything, and they come together beautifully to create a rich, chocolatey flavor that will have your guests coming back for seconds!

How to Prepare Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because a properly preheated oven ensures that your dessert bakes evenly and rises beautifully. No one wants a flat cake, right? So, while you’re gathering your ingredients, let the oven do its thing!

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting is important here—it breaks up any lumps and aerates the dry ingredients, leading to a lighter texture in your cake. Just whisk them together gently for a minute or two until everything’s well mixed. The aroma of cocoa will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly!

Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure to whisk it well until it’s completely combined—this is where the magic begins! Each ingredient plays its part: the buttermilk adds moisture and richness, while the eggs give structure. The oil helps keep the cake super moist, which is essential for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients! Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently until just mixed. You don’t want to overmix here; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Aim for a smooth batter without any dry flour visible. The excitement is building, and it’s starting to look like cake!

Incorporate Boiling Water

Here comes the game-changer: carefully stir in the boiling water. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture! The hot water helps to bloom the cocoa powder, enhancing the chocolate flavor and creating a super moist batter. Just take your time and mix until it’s smooth—you’ll notice the batter will be a bit thinner, but that’s exactly what we want!

Add Chocolate Chips

Now, fold in those glorious chocolate chips. Use a spatula and gently fold them into the batter, being careful not to overmix. We want those little pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake, so a gentle hand here will keep your batter nice and fluffy.

Bake the Dessert

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes, as ovens can vary!

Cooling and Serving

Once it’s done baking, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time is essential; it helps the cake set and makes it easier to slice. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. When you’re ready to serve, slice it into squares and consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for that extra touch. Your guests won’t know what hit them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious dessert without the fuss.
With its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will impress your guests.
This dessert can be made in just one pan, which means less cleanup and more time for you to enjoy your gathering!
It feeds a large group—12 servings—so it’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or family get-togethers.
The recipe is versatile; feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits to customize it.
It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries for an extra touch of indulgence.
This dessert is also beginner-friendly, making it a great choice for those new to baking.

Tips for Success

To make sure your dessert turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I’ve picked up along the way:

Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so use a kitchen scale for the most accurate measurements, especially with flour and cocoa powder. Too much of either can lead to a dense cake.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine more smoothly and leads to a better texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher cake.
Check for Doneness: Besides the toothpick test, gently press the top of the cake; it should spring back when it’s done. If it leaves an indent, give it a few more minutes.
Cool in the Pan: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack helps it set and prevents crumbling.
Enhance the Chocolate Flavor: For an extra rich chocolate flavor, you can use a high-quality cocoa powder and add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze in slices.

Following these tips will help you navigate any potential pitfalls and ensure that your easy dessert for a crowd is a delightful success! Happy baking!

Variations

One of the best things about this easy dessert for a crowd is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch up the flavors and textures to make it your own. Here are some fun variations to inspire your creativity:

Nuts: Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. They pair wonderfully with the chocolate and add an extra layer of flavor.
Dried Fruits: Incorporate 1 cup of dried cherries, cranberries, or apricots for a sweet and tangy twist. They’ll add a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the moist cake.
Peanut Butter Swirl: For a decadent twist, swirl in half a cup of creamy peanut butter into the batter before baking. It creates beautiful marbling and a rich flavor that’s hard to resist!
Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the wet ingredients for a refreshing minty flavor. Top with crushed peppermint candies after baking for a festive touch!
Mocha Delight: Mix in a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder with the dry ingredients for a rich coffee flavor that intensifies the chocolate.
Fruit Topping: Serve slices topped with fresh berries or a fruit compote for a light and refreshing addition. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
Frosting Options: Feel free to top your cake with a luscious chocolate ganache or a classic buttercream frosting. Cream cheese frosting also adds a tangy contrast that’s absolutely delightful!

These variations not only enhance the base recipe but also let you cater to different tastes and preferences. Get creative and don’t be afraid to experiment—your guests will love the personalized touch!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made this amazing easy dessert for a crowd, it’s time to think about how to serve it up! Presentation can really elevate your dessert experience, and there are plenty of delightful accompaniments that will take it to the next level. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy touch. You can even sweeten it with a bit of powdered sugar or a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor!
Ice Cream: Serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream melting over the top. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream is simply divine, and it’s a classic for a reason!
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle some rich chocolate ganache over each slice for an indulgent touch. The glossy finish looks beautiful and adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
Fresh Berries: Top your cake with a medley of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Not only do they add a pop of color, but the tartness pairs perfectly with the sweet chocolate cake!
Powdered Sugar: For a simple yet elegant touch, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. It gives a nice contrast and looks so pretty!
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over each piece adds a deliciously sweet and gooey element that will have everyone coming back for more!
Mint Leaves: Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing aroma. It’s a lovely touch that brightens up the presentation.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create your own perfect serving style. The way you present this dessert can make it feel even more special, and I promise your guests will be impressed by the extra effort. Enjoy every delicious bite together!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for a single slice of this easy dessert for a crowd. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider them as estimates:

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 50mg

These values provide a general idea of what you can expect, but be sure to adjust based on your ingredient choices and portion sizes. Enjoy every bite of this delicious dessert with a clear mind, knowing you’re treating yourself and your guests to something special!

FAQ Section

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Just wait to add any toppings or garnishes until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dessert freezes beautifully! Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!

What should I do if the cake is too dry?
If you find your cake is a bit dry, it’s likely overbaked. Make sure to check for doneness a few minutes early next time. If it does happen, you can serve it with ice cream or a drizzle of ganache to add moisture.

Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with cake flour for a lighter texture. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount slightly, as cake flour absorbs liquid differently.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

How can I make this dessert more chocolatey?
If you’re a chocolate fanatic, try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients or even swapping some of the boiling water for brewed coffee. It’ll intensify the chocolate flavor!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
The best way to keep your leftover cake fresh is to store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a humid area, refrigeration might be best to prevent spoilage.

You might also like it

Jello Cookies: 7 Easy Steps to Fun and Flavorful Treats

Soft Christmas Peppermints: 7 Simple Steps to Success

Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake: 5 Expert Tips

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.