How do you convert a vanilla cake recipe to chocolate cake?

To convert a vanilla cake to a chocolate cake, here's what you need to do:

1. Flour and Salt Reduction: Reduce the amount of all-purpose flour by about 1/4 cup (31 grams). This makes room for the addition of cocoa powder. Reduce the salt by 1/8 teaspoon (0.6 grams) to balance the flavors.

2. Cocoa Powder: Add 3/4 cup (75 grams) of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. This is the key ingredient that gives the cake its chocolate flavor and color.

3. Hot Coffee/Water Replacement: Replace some of the liquid in the recipe with hot coffee or hot water. Using about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of hot coffee or hot water will enhance the chocolate flavor.

4. Brown Sugar Addition: Add 1/4 cup (50 grams) of brown sugar to the wet ingredients. Brown sugar has a molasses flavor that complements the chocolate well.

5. Instant Coffee/Espresso Powder (optional): For an extra chocolate kick, you can add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee powder or espresso powder to the dry ingredients.

6. Vanilla Extract Adjustment: Reduce the amount of vanilla extract by half, as the chocolate flavor should be the dominant one.

7. Baking Soda Adjustment: Since cocoa powder is acidic, you may need to increase the baking soda by 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) to balance the pH. This ensures the cake rises properly.

8. Milk Chocolate/Dark Chocolate Variation: If you prefer a richer chocolate flavor, you can use 1 cup (100 grams) of melted dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of the cocoa powder. Reduce the amount of hot liquid you add if using chocolate.

9. Chocolate Chips Addition (optional): You can also add 1 cup (180 grams) of semisweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for an extra textural element.

10. Baking Time: Chocolate cakes may take a few minutes longer to bake compared to vanilla cakes due to the extra ingredients. Keep an eye on the cake and check for doneness using a toothpick or cake tester.

By making these adjustments to your vanilla cake recipe, you can easily transform it into a delicious and decadent chocolate cake. Enjoy!