Ingredients
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 teaspoon white vinegar
Food coloring (red, optional for enhanced color)
Powdered sugar (for topping)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
In a separate bowl, combine vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vinegar. Mix until well blended.
Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (avoid overmixing).
Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Add a few drops of red food coloring if desired.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool layers completely in pans on wire racks.
Frost with preferred frosting (cream cheese or vanilla) between layers and on top. Optionally dust with powdered sugar for garnish.
Notes
Sift flour for a smoother texture.
Room temperature ingredients ensure even mixing.
Use natural unsweetened cocoa powder for optimal flavor and color.
Do not overmix batter to prevent dense crumb.
For a richer flavor, substitute melted butter for vegetable oil (1:1 ratio).
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Classic American Cake Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of 3-layer cake)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg