Delicious and Moist Chocolate Picnic Cake

Indulge in this rich and decadent chocolate picnic cake that is perfect for any outdoor gathering. This moist cake is made with a combination of cocoa powder and melted chocolate, giving it an intense chocolate flavor. Topped with a creamy chocolate frosting and garnished with fresh berries, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With a preparation time of 60 minutes, you can easily whip up this delightful treat for your next picnic.

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, melted
• 1 cup buttermilk
• For the frosting:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh berries, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the boiling water and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the melted chocolate to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
7. Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. To make the frosting, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
12. Remove the cream from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and well combined.
13. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture, whisking until creamy and thickened.
14. Place the frosting in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up slightly.
15. Once the cake has cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top and sides.
16. Garnish with fresh berries before serving.
17. Slice and enjoy!

Interesting Facts