Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). For easy release, grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. For the brownies, line a square pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Add in the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat them together on medium speed for about 2 minutes.
- Carefully stir in boiling water; don’t fret if the batter looks thin—that’s just perfect!
- Pour half of the batter into each of the prepared cake pans and the remaining batter into your brownie pan. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts to the brownies, fold them in now.
- Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The brownies will need about 25-30 minutes in the oven.
- Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to wire racks.
- Once everything is cooled, feel free to frost the cake as you desire and cut the brownies into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Consider serving the cake and brownies together for a decadent dessert platter. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side pairs beautifully with the fudgy brownies, or you could garnish the cake with whipped cream and fresh berries for a pop of color. Drizzle some chocolate ganache over both desserts for an extra touch of luxury!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To maintain the deliciousness of your chocolate cake and brownies, make sure to store them properly. Cover each dessert with plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers. The cake can last at room temperature for about 3 days, while brownies can last up to a week. If you want to save some for later, make sure to freeze them in well-wrapped portions.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.
- If you want an even more chocolaty brownie, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
- Don’t skip the boiling water! It helps to create that moist texture you crave.
- Use a toothpick to test doneness, but silicone spatulas are handy for ensuring even baking.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative or infuse some espresso powder into the batter for a richer flavor. Consider adding caramel bits to the brownie batter or frosting the cake with a rich peanut butter icing. These variations will take your chocolate treat from ordinary to extraordinary!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
The total prep and cooking time is around 1 hour, making it a quick yet satisfying baking project.
Can I make substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily swap out the whole milk for a dairy-free alternative, or use egg substitutes for a vegan version.
How should I store leftovers for the best freshness?
Store your cake and brownies separately in airtight containers at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for a couple of months.
Now you have all the essentials for whipping up this delightful chocolate cake and brownie combo. Happy baking!
