Wheat Free Chocolate Cake

Total time1 hr 40 min

Prep time20 min

Cook time35 min

This rich layer cake gets its deep chocolate flavor from a generous amount of cocoa powder, balanced with applesauce and buttermilk for a moist, tender crumb that holds together beautifully between two soft, springy layers. A splash of vinegar reacts with the batter to give it lift, while hot water thins everything into a silky mix that bakes up smooth and even. Once cooled, the layers get stacked and covered in a thick, glossy frosting made from butter, cocoa, and powdered sugar, whipped until fluffy and finished with a touch of cream for that classic spreadable texture. Every bite delivers that nostalgic, bakery-style chocolate cake experience — dense enough to feel indulgent, but light enough to disappear fast. It's a dependable pick for a wheat free dessert table, whether you're serving it for a birthday or just because chocolate cake sounds good today.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

12 servings

For the cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
King Arthur Baking Company Gluten-Free Measure For Measure Flour Bob’s Red Mill 1 to 1 Baking Flour Pillsbury Best Gluten Free All Purpose Flour Blend - 24 Oz Bob's Red Mill Baking Flour, 1 to 1, Gluten Free King Arthur Gluten Free Measure for Measure Flour
See all
Chef's tip
Choose a gluten-free baking blend labeled 1:1 or cup-for-cup and use the same amount. Almond and coconut flour won't work the same way.
2 cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp white vinegar
1 cup hot water

For the frosting

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans, line the bottoms with parchment paper, and grease the parchment.
2
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!