Transform your baking game with this irresistible chocolate chip cake recipe that combines the comfort of a classic vanilla cake with the indulgent surprise of chocolate chips in every bite. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or whenever you're craving something special, this cake delivers bakery-quality results right from your home kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Chocolate Chip Cake Recipe
This beloved cake has earned its place as a family favorite for good reason. The tender, buttery crumb studded with melty chocolate chips creates a perfect balance of flavors that appeals to both kids and adults. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this foolproof recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
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Ingredients
the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
the Optional Chocolate Glaze:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease your baking pan and line with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal
- Toss 2 tablespoons of flour with the chocolate chips in a small bowl to prevent sinking
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt
- Set aside the dry mixture
Cream Butter and Sugar
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes)
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed
Add Wet Ingredients
- Beat in eggs one at a time, incorporating fully after each addition
- Mix in vanilla extract
- Add vegetable oil and mix until combined
- Gradually add milk, alternating with the dry ingredients mixture
Finish the Batter
- Fold in the flour-coated chocolate chips gently
- Pour batter into prepared pan(s)
- Smooth the top with a spatula
Bake and Cool
- Bake for 45-50 minutes for a 9x13 pan (or 30-35 minutes for round pans)
- Test with a toothpick - it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs
- Cool in pan for 15 minutes
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely
Optional Chocolate Glaze
- Heat heavy cream until just simmering
- Pour over chocolate chips and butter
- Let stand for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth
- Pour over cooled cake
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week
- Freezer: Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months
- Make-Ahead: Bake and freeze unglazed cake layers up to 1 month in advance
Recipe Variations
- Milk Chocolate Version: Replace semi-sweet chips with milk chocolate chips
- Triple Chocolate: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the batter and use both dark and white chocolate chips
- Nutty Addition: Include 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert
- Pair with coffee or milk for afternoon tea
- Add fresh berries for a fruity contrast
- Dress up with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for special occasions
Equipment For Chocolate Chip Cake Recipe
- 9x13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Wire cooling rack
- Parchment paper
Top Tip
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing
Don't overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the cake tender
Coat chocolate chips with flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom
Test for doneness 5 minutes before the recommended baking time
Let the cake cool completely before glazing
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This chocolate chip cake can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Why did my chocolate chips sink to the bottom?
Coating the chocolate chips with flour before adding them to the batter helps prevent sinking. Also, ensure your batter isn't too thin.
Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?
Absolutely! This recipe yields about 24 cupcakes. Reduce baking time to 18-20 minutes and test for doneness with a toothpick.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs. The cake should also spring back when lightly pressed.
HOW DID YOUR OUT?
How did your Chocolate Chip Cake Recipe turn out? Ready to savor something new? This recipe is sure to impress with its perfect balance of tender vanilla cake studded with melty chocolate chips, all topped with a rich chocolate buttercream that makes every bite memorable. If you're a fan of classic comfort desserts, be sure to try our Blackberry Cheesecake Recipe next – another easy-to-make yet delicious treat!
Did you make this Chocolate Chip Cake Recipe? We'd love to hear about your experience! Leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments. Did you try any creative twists or use any unique ingredients? Some bakers have had great success using different chocolate varieties like dark and white chips, while others love adding a touch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. Your feedback not only helps others but also contributes to our growing community of home cooks. Don't forget to share a photo of your culinary creation!
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Chocolate Chip Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Wire cooling rack
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
the Optional Chocolate Glaze:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease your baking pan and line with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal
- Toss 2 tablespoons of flour with the chocolate chips in a small bowl to prevent sinking
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt
- Set aside the dry mixture
Cream Butter and Sugar
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes)
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed
Add Wet Ingredients
- Beat in eggs one at a time, incorporating fully after each addition
- Mix in vanilla extract
- Add vegetable oil and mix until combined
- Gradually add milk, alternating with the dry ingredients mixture
Finish the Batter
- Fold in the flour-coated chocolate chips gently
- Pour batter into prepared pan(s)
- Smooth the top with a spatula
Bake and Cool
- Bake for 45-50 minutes for a 9x13 pan (or 30-35 minutes for round pans)
- Test with a toothpick - it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs
- Cool in pan for 15 minutes
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely
Emily says
Made this for my daughter's birthday and it was a huge hit! The cake was so moist and the frosting was perfect. Will definitely make again! ❤️