(idea inspired by google searches for for dinosaure cake & recipe from FamilyFun Birthday Cakes: 50 Cute & Easy Party Treats )

Chocolate Cake

The devil’s food recipe makes a moist cake, perfect for a chocolate lover’s birthday party.

1 ½ cups water

4 ounces unsweetened chocolate

1/3 cup cocoa powder

1 cup canola oil

1 cup granulated sugar

¾ cup packed brown sugar

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

Preheat the oven to 350º. Butter and lightly flour the cake pans*

In a microwave-safe liquid measuring cup, measure 1 ½ cups water. Add the unsweetened chocolate to the water. Microwave for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring after 1½ minute, or until the chocolate has melted. Transfer to a medium-size bowl and whisk until smooth. Whisk in the cocoa and set the mixture aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the oil, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract together on high for 2 to 3 minutes, or until light and fluffy.

In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add the flour mixture and chocolate mixture alternately to the oil mixture, stirring well after each addition. When all the ingredients are added, beat on medium for 1 minute.

Pour the cake batter into the prepared pans. Bake according to the times listed below, or until the toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Serves 8 to 10.

I bought some yummy chocolate buttercream frosting from the local cake store. I also bought the green frosting there and some clear gel frosting and added blue food coloring for the river.

*two-or 9 inch rounds or squares; bake for 35 minutes

*one 13- by 9- by 2inch pan; bake for 40 minutes

*two 12-cup cupcake tins; bake for 20 minutes

*two dome cakes, baked in 1 ½ ovenproof bowls (stainless steel or Pyrex) 55 minutes

*one dome cake, baked in a 21/4 quart bowl for 1 hour 20 minutes

*two 8 ½ – by 4 1/2-inch loaf pans; bake for 45 minutes.

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