Introduction
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further! This delightful chocolate chip cake is truly a slice of heaven on a plate. With its golden crust and rich, buttery flavor, it’s the perfect treat for family gatherings, cozy afternoons, or simply indulging your sweet tooth. The melty chocolate chips add a blissful burst of flavor, making each bite irresistibly scrumptious. Let’s dive into this heavenly recipe that will soon become a beloved favorite in your home!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure that your cake releases easily.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a lovely sweet aroma.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a smooth and cohesive batter.
- Next, gently stir in the vanilla extract, allowing the sweet and warm notes to infuse the mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, creating a dry blend that will help your cake rise perfectly.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined, ensuring you don’t over mix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, spreading them throughout the batter for delicious pockets of melty goodness.
- Pour the luscious batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly into the corners.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling a perfectly baked cake.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, dust the top with powdered sugar before cutting it into squares to serve.
Notes or Tips
For an extra indulgent treat, consider adding nuts or swapping half of the chocolate chips for your favorite type of chocolate. This cake can be easily customized to suit your taste! If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This cake also freezes beautifully, so you can save some for a rainy day.
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugar, make sure to allow enough time for air to incorporate into the mixture; this helps create a light, fluffy texture in the final cake. Folding in the chocolate chips carefully will ensure they’re evenly distributed without deflating your batter. Remember, the key to a wonderful cake lies in the balance of all ingredients and gentle handling of the mixture!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be slightly denser. Consider using a mix of both for a lighter result.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Absolutely! You can replace each egg with ¼ cup of applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for an egg-free version.
Conclusion
This chocolate chip cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a sweet moment to savor with loved ones. With its warm, inviting flavors and a beautiful texture, it’s bound to bring joy to your table. Whether you enjoy it on its own, with a scoop of ice cream, or dusted with powdered sugar, each bite is a reminder that some of the best things in life come straight from the oven. Happy baking!