Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Hot Cocoa Frosting:

  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar
  • ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix (sweetened)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Marshmallow Topping:

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Double boiler or heatproof bowl for marshmallow topping
  • Kitchen torch (optional, for toasting marshmallow topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and combined.
  4. Carefully stir in the boiling water (the batter will be thin). Mix until fully incorporated.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Hot Cocoa Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, beating until smooth.
  3. Add heavy cream, hot cocoa mix, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  4. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream (1 tablespoon at a time). If too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Step 3: Prepare the Marshmallow Topping

  1. In a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler), combine egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar.
  2. Whisk constantly until the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C) or the sugar is fully dissolved (about 5–7 minutes).
  3. Remove from heat and transfer to a clean mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form (about 5–7 minutes).
  4. Add vanilla extract and beat for another 30 seconds.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of hot cocoa frosting over the top.
  2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining hot cocoa frosting.
  3. Spoon or pipe the marshmallow topping over the top of the cake, creating swirls or peaks.
  4. (Optional) Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the marshmallow topping for a campfire effect.

Step 5: Serve and Store

  • Serve the cake immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The marshmallow topping may deflate slightly over time.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garnish with mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
  • Pair with a mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy experience.

Tips

  • Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
  • If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can briefly broil the marshmallow topping in the oven (watch closely to avoid burning).
  • For a stronger hot cocoa flavor, add an extra tablespoon of hot cocoa mix to the frosting.

Prep Time

  • Preparation: 30 minutes
  • Baking: 30–35 minutes
  • Assembly: 20 minutes
  • Total: ~1 hour 25 minutes

Servings

  • Makes 12 slices

Enjoy your Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cake!