Easy Chocolate Traybake: The Ultimate One-Pan Chocolate Cake Recipe
Easy Chocolate Traybake: The Ultimate One-Pan Chocolate Cake Recipe
This chocolate traybake recipe is the perfect solution when you need a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party, contributing to a bake sale, or just craving something sweet, this one-pan chocolate cake delivers delicious results every time. The moist chocolate sponge topped with decadent fudgy icing reminds me of those nostalgic school cake desserts we all loved.
What makes this recipe so brilliant is its versatility. You get generous portions perfect for feeding a crowd, but the slices are also ideal for packed lunches or quick snacks. This is the kind of everyday chocolate dessert that becomes a family favorite in no time.
If you enjoy simple traybake recipes like this, you might also love our French Strawberry Cake Recipe or the classic Strawberry Crunch Cake for more sweet treats.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Fudgy Icing:
- ½ cup butter
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ⅓ cup milk
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Carefully stir in the boiling water – the batter will be thin, which is perfect for that moist texture.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your 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 before adding the icing.
Step 4: Make the Fudgy Icing
While the cake cools, prepare the icing. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the cocoa powder and milk, then bring to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Pour the warm icing over the cooled cake and spread evenly.
Expert Tips
For the perfect chocolate traybake every time, here are some pro tips:
- Don’t overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid a tough cake
- Room temperature eggs: This helps create a lighter texture
- Cool completely: Always let the cake cool before icing to prevent melting
- Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days
If you’re looking for more delicious dessert ideas, check out our Strawberry Crunch Cake Recipe for another family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chocolate traybake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. You can bake it a day in advance and add the icing before serving.
How should I cut the cake for a bake sale?
For bake sales or parties, cut the traybake into small squares – about 2×2 inches. This makes perfect portion-controlled treats that are easy to package and serve.
Can I freeze the traybake?
Yes, this cake freezes beautifully. Freeze without the icing, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Thaw at room temperature and add the icing before serving.
What makes this different from a regular chocolate cake?
The traybake method creates a thinner cake with more surface area for that delicious icing. It’s designed for easy slicing and serving to groups, making it perfect for gatherings and events.
For more comforting dessert recipes that are perfect for any occasion, explore our collection of comfort food favorites that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Easy Chocolate Traybake: The Ultimate One-Pan Chocolate Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs, then add milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Carefully stir in boiling water – the batter will be thin.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Allow cake to cool completely in pan before adding icing.
- Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Stir in cocoa powder and milk, then bring to gentle boil. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Pour warm icing over cooled cake and spread evenly.
