Discover one of the best cake recipes with just five ingredients: this easy chocolate cake is vegan, moist, and fluffy, requiring no eggs, butter, or milk. Perfect for beginners or quick baking sessions, it uses simple pantry staples to create a light, decadent treat that’s ready in under an hour. Whether you’re craving a simple dessert or need an allergy-friendly option, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and wholesome appeal.
Easy Chocolate Cake
Why This Easy Chocolate Cake Recipe Stands Out
Among the best cake recipes with five ingredients, this chocolate version is egg-free and dairy-free, making it ideal for vegans or those with dietary restrictions. It relies on self-rising flour for lift and olive oil for moisture, resulting in a tender crumb without complicated mixing. Bake it in a single layer or use for cupcakes—versatile and foolproof for home bakers worldwide.
Ingredients for Easy Chocolate Cake (Serves 12)
Keep it simple with these five wholesome ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup light olive oil
- 1 cup almond milk (or water for a lighter texture)
Optional: A pinch of salt for enhanced flavor, but it sticks to five core items.
Five Ingredient Mud Cake
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Easy Chocolate Cake
This straightforward method ensures success every time:
- Preheat and prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch cake pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk self-rising flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and optional salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Create a well in the center; pour in olive oil and almond milk. Whisk until smooth.
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool: Let cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
Total time: 40 minutes (10 prep, 30 bake). Frost if desired for extra indulgence.
For a visual walkthrough, watch this beginner-friendly YouTube tutorial comparing 2-ingredient vs. 5-ingredient chocolate cake: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_H-k95u23XE
Tips for the Best Cake with Five Ingredients
- Substitutions: Use gluten-free self-rising flour for a GF version; add vanilla extract for flavor boost.
- Moisture: Stir in applesauce for extra moistness without adding ingredients.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for a month.
- Even baking: Tap pan to remove air bubbles before baking.
(Baking with Kids) Easy Chocolate Cake -Guest Post from Baking Outside The Box
Variations on Easy Chocolate Cake
- Cupcakes: Bake in muffin tins for 18-20 minutes.
- Layer cake: Double the recipe and stack with frosting.
- Flavor twists: Add nuts or chocolate chips (staying close to five items).
Nutritional Information for Easy Chocolate Cake (Per Slice)
Based on 12 slices, this cake is a lighter indulgence. Values are approximate and based on standard ingredients; actual nutrition may vary.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Slice | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 166 kcal | 8% |
| Total Fat | 7g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 77mg | 3% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 25g | 9% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars | 13g | – |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Cake Recipes with Five Ingredients
What makes this one of the best?
Its simplicity and vegan-friendly nature make it accessible and delicious without fancy tools.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, swap with gluten-free self-rising flour and adjust bake time slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Airtight container in the fridge for 4 days or freeze slices.
This best cake recipe with five ingredients proves baking can be effortless and tasty. Whip it up and indulge!