Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A freshly baked square chocolate cake cooling on a wire rack in a rustic kitchen

Square Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 17 reviews

  • Author: Teresa Flagler
  • Total Time: 50 mins
  • Yield: 9 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This honest and approachable single-layer chocolate cake features an incredibly moist crumb achieved through the classic combination of buttermilk and vegetable oil. Topped with a thick, velvety homemade frosting, it is a timeless dessert that proves simple pantry staples can create a truly comforting masterpiece.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher sea salt
  • 1/2 cup quality unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 pinches sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 9×9-inch square pan with parchment paper or grease and flour thoroughly.
  2. In a mixer bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil, beating for 30 seconds until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, then gently mix in the vanilla extract, buttermilk, and warm water (with espresso powder dissolved if using).
  4. Sift the flour, baking soda, baking powder, sea salt, and cocoa powder into the wet mixture and whisk for about 30 seconds until the flour streaks disappear.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top springs back or a tester comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  6. Transfer the cake to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely to ensure the frosting stays firm once applied.
  7. Prepare the frosting by beating softened butter until pale and creamy, then whisking in powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla, and salt until light and fluffy.
  8. Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake, using a spoon to create decorative swoops before slicing into squares.

Notes

For the best results, ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature to create a smooth, emulsified batter. If you choose to store the cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its signature moisture for several days.

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Did you make this recipe?

Tag us @changehere — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://cakehalf.com/square-cake/