Could anyone say it any better? Chocolate is a wonderful thing! Of course Betty Crocker would know. But, what do we know about chocolate?
Today, research has shown that chocolate has some health benefits. Over 300 naturally occurring chemicals are found in chocolate. In a study conducted by Andrew Waterhouse, chocolate was found to have potent antioxidants called phenols. Cocoa phenols were found to prevent the bad cholesterol from causing plaque buildup in the arteries. The darker the chocolate, the more phenols it contains. The conclusion is the purer and darker chocolates may provide the most health benefits.
As with all things, moderation is the key. So today, let’s enjoy some delicious, sweet, satisfying chocolate! Here’s my favorite chocolate cake recipe with my easy chocolate butter cream recipe, also.
Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
1/2 cup butter (melted)
1-1/2 cups milk
2 teaspoons baking powder
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
3 teaspoons vanilla
1-3/4 cups flour
1 cup cocoa (Hershey’s)
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour 2 9-inch round cake pans. In a mixing bowl combine the sugar, eggs, milk and butter. Add in the vanilla, salt and baking powder. Stir in the flour and cocoa. Don’t over mix the batter. Pour into the prepared pans. Bake the cakes for about 30 – 35 minutes.
I think the most common reason people end up with dry, crumbly cakes is over baking. I don’t rely completely on the timer. When I smell chocolate, I open the oven and lightly touch the center of the cake. If it springs back, I take out the cake. If it doesn’t I give it a few more minutes and test again. I also remove my cakes from the pans while warm. I find if I let them cool completely they stick to the pans.
Chocolate Butter Cream Frosting
Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter at room temperature
1 cup cocoa (Hershey’s)
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 milk
In a mixing bowl, using a hand mixer, combine all ingredients until light and creamy.
Use the frosting for the filling between the two layers and then generously ice the rest of the cake. If the frosting seems a little soft you can either add more powdered sugar until the desired thickness or place the cake in the refrigerator for a few minutes or until serving.
So I hope you enjoy your chocolate cake!
There’s nothing better than a good friend, except a good friend with CHOCOLATE
There’s nothing better than a good friend, except a good friend with chocolate. – Linda Grayson, The Pickwick Papers
Too much of a good thing is simply wonderful! – Deborah Fox-Rothschild
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