Easy Chocolate Traybake Recipe – Simple One Pan Chocolate Slab Cake
Easy Chocolate Traybake Recipe – Simple One Pan Chocolate Slab Cake
This easy chocolate traybake is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert that comes together in one pan with minimal effort. Perfect for bake sales, parties, or as an everyday treat, this simple chocolate slab cake features a moist, tender crumb and rich fudgy icing that will satisfy any chocolate craving. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a reliable go-to dessert, this recipe delivers every time.
What makes this traybake so special is its versatility – it’s equally at home at a school cake sale as it is on your family dessert table. The simple preparation means even beginner bakers can achieve professional results, while the classic chocolate flavor appeals to all ages. If you love easy baking projects, you might also enjoy our ultimate one bowl chocolate cake for another fuss-free chocolate dessert option.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Fudgy Icing:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined and free of lumps.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Step 4: Add Boiling Water
Carefully pour in the boiling water and stir until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin – this is normal and will result in a moist cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 6: Make the Fudgy Icing
While the cake cools, prepare the icing. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the milk and cocoa powder, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until the icing is glossy and pourable.
Step 7: Ice and Serve
Pour the warm icing over the cooled cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the icing to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares. For more chocolate dessert inspiration, check out our easy chocolate sheet cake recipe.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
Measure accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for consistent results. Spoon flour into measuring cups and level with a knife for accuracy.
Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to avoid a tough cake texture.
Cool completely: Ensure the cake is completely cool before icing to prevent the frosting from melting and becoming greasy.
Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. This cake also freezes well – wrap individual slices for easy grab-and-go treats.
If you’re looking for other easy dessert options, our chocolate chip oatmeal cookies are another family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Bake it up to 2 days in advance and store tightly covered.
Can I use a different size pan?
For best results, stick with a 9×13 inch pan. Smaller pans will require longer baking time and may overflow, while larger pans will result in a thinner cake.
How many servings does this make?
This recipe yields approximately 24 generous squares, making it perfect for parties, bake sales, or feeding a crowd.
Can I make this without buttermilk?
Yes! Make your own buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Easy Chocolate Traybake Recipe – Simple One Pan Chocolate Slab Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined and free of lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Carefully pour in the boiling water and stir until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin – this is normal and will result in a moist cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the cake cools, prepare the icing. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the milk and cocoa powder, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until the icing is glossy and pourable.
- Pour the warm icing over the cooled cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the icing to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
