Decadent Buttermilk Chocolate Dream Cake

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and positioning the rack in the middle. This ensures even baking.

2. Prepare Baking Pan

Take a 13 by 9-inch baking pan and lightly grease it. Line the bottom with parchment paper, grease the paper, and then dust the entire pan with flour. This prevents your cake from sticking.

3. Sift Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt to ensure there are no lumps and the ingredients are well combined.

4. Melt Chocolate and Butter

Place the chopped chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave at 50 percent power for 2 minutes, stirring every minute until melted and smooth. This method prevents scorching the chocolate.

5. Whisk Eggs, Sugar, and Vanilla

In another medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. This step incorporates air, which is essential for a light cake.

6. Combine Chocolate Mixture with Egg Mixture

Gradually whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, ensuring a smooth consistency.

7. Add Buttermilk and Baking Soda

Add the buttermilk and baking soda to the batter, whisking until combined. The baking soda reacts with the buttermilk, causing the batter to become slightly bubbly, which helps create a lighter texture in the finished cake.

8. Whisk in Dry Ingredients

Gently whisk the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture until you achieve a smooth and glossy batter. Take care not to overmix to maintain the cake’s delicate texture.

9. Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, scraping the bowl to get every bit of the delicious mixture. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

10. Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. The cake is done when the center feels firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.