Name: Perfectly Moist Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups plain / all purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 1/2 tsp baking soda (bi-carb soda); 2 cups white sugar; 1 tsp salt; 2 eggs (approximately 55-65g / 2 oz each); 1 cup milk (low or full fat); 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil); 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 1/2 batches Chocolate Buttercream Frosting (see separate recipe with scaling)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 13 reviews

If you have a craving for rich, decadent chocolate cake that stays irresistibly tender slice after slice, you’re in the right place! This Perfectly Moist Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Recipe is the one I return to again and again because it nails everything from flavor to texture. It’s a beloved classic that celebrates real cocoa goodness with a crumb so soft and moist, you’ll wonder how it can taste this chocolatey and lush with such simple ingredients. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this cake promises a slice of pure happiness every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A single thick round chocolate cake sits on a plain white plate, showing a smooth, slightly cracked top with a rich dark brown color. The cake has a soft, moist texture with small holes visible on the side, and it stands firmly on a white marbled surface. The background includes a beige and white kitchen cloth slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Perfectly Moist Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Recipe starts with a handful of straightforward pantry staples. Each ingredient plays its part, from creating the perfect crumb to enhancing that bold chocolate flavor.

1 3/4 cups plain/all-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the cake soft and tender.
3/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened): The heart of the recipe, it delivers deep chocolate richness.
1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise just the right amount for a fluffy texture.
1 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give the cake a light, airy crumb.
2 cups white sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to moisture retention.
1 tsp salt: Enhances and balances the flavors perfectly.
2 eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
1 cup milk (low or full fat): Adds creaminess and keeps the batter smooth.
1/2 cup vegetable oil (or canola): Essential for that moist, tender crumb everyone loves.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate.
1 cup boiling water: Unlocks the cocoa flavor and thins the batter for the perfect texture.

How to Make Perfectly Moist Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position for even heat. Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with butter and parchment paper to ensure your cakes will come out cleanly without sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda into a large mixing bowl. Add the sugar and salt, then whisk everything together briefly to mix evenly. This step ensures no lumps and a consistent texture throughout your cake.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Mix

Into the dry mix, add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. The batter will be thick but homogenous, which is exactly what you want as the next step transforms it.

Step 4: Incorporate the Boiling Water

Carefully pour in the boiling water, stirring gently but thoroughly. The batter will become very thin—do not worry, this is correct and is part of what makes this Perfectly Moist Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Recipe stand out. The hot water intensifies the chocolate flavor and helps create an ultra-moist crumb.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and place them into the preheated oven. Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door too early to keep the rise steady and your cakes perfectly tender.

Step 6: Cool Before Frosting

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then carefully invert them onto wire racks to cool completely. Proper cooling prevents your frosting from melting and ensures smooth, even frosting coverage.

How to Serve Perfectly Moist Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Recipe

A slice of three-layer chocolate cake sits on a white plate with a soft white marbled background. The bottom and top layers are dark, rich, and moist chocolate cake with a rough, crumbly texture. Between these cake layers are two smooth and creamy layers of light brown chocolate frosting that look soft and thick. The outside of the cake is fully covered with the same frosting, swirled gently to add texture. In the background, there is a blurry white flower and a small white bowl with a drink or cream inside, topped with a sprinkle of brown powder. A silver fork rests on the plate next to the cake. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a classic finish, frost with a rich chocolate buttercream or dust with powdered sugar. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can add texture and a gentle contrast to the moist crumb. The key is simplicity—let that luscious chocolate shine.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, balancing richness with cool creaminess. For grown-up gatherings, a glass of port wine or robust coffee can elevate the experience and complement the cake’s deep chocolate notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your slices layered with alternating frosting and fresh raspberries for a beautiful look and flavor pop. You could also turn this into cupcakes or a tiered cake for celebrations—the recipe scales beautifully and never loses its famously moist texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed prevents the cake from drying out and preserves its moist texture perfectly.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted layers or fully frosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This quick heat brings out the chocolate aroma and makes each bite feel freshly baked while preserving moistness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes! Vegetable oil or canola oil work best for maintaining moistness without adding flavor. Olive oil is not recommended as it can impart a strong taste that might overshadow the chocolate.

Is it okay if my batter is very thin?

Absolutely! The thin batter is intentional and a hallmark of this Perfectly Moist Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Recipe. It ensures a tender, moist crumb and full cocoa flavor once baked.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Substituting with a gluten-free flour blend might work, but texture can vary. For best results, use a blend designed for cakes and follow manufacturer’s guidelines for substitution.

Do I need to sift the dry ingredients?

Sifting helps create a smooth batter and avoids clumps, especially with cocoa powder. If you don’t have a sifter, whisk the dry ingredients thoroughly to achieve a similar effect.

How long can I keep the cake before frosting?

Once cooled, you can leave the cake layers at room temperature for up to 24 hours before frosting. If keeping longer, wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness and moisture.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Perfectly Moist Hershey’s Chocolate Cake Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm chocolate hug. It’s straightforward, effortlessly delicious, and consistently hits the spot whether it’s a weekday treat or a special celebration. Trust me, once you try it, this cake will become your go-to favorite too. Happy baking and even happier snacking!