I love, love, love Studio Ghibli.
I’m not going to lie when I say that I’ve watched Kiki’s Delivery Service easily over 10 times at least.
One of my favorites has always been that tender scene in Kiki’s Delivery Service when the sweet grandmother bakes a chocolate cake for her granddaughter’s birthday, and Kiki delivers it through a thunderstorm.
The cake is humble, rich, and made with so much love that it always made me crave chocolate cake, lol.
I remember watching that scene as a kid and wishing I could reach into the screen and have just one slice.
Now that I bake often, I’ve created my own version of that iconic “bakery-style” chocolate cake: soft and fluffy!
This chocolate cake is inspired by the warmth of Ghibli movies—comforting, simple, and deeply satisfying.
It’s not overly sweet, and it’s perfect with a glass of milk, a hot cup of tea, or a slow weekend morning.
You don’t need fancy tools or complicated ingredients—just a little time, love, and cocoa. 😛
The cake comes together easily and bakes up moist and airy, with a delicate crumb and a chocolate flavor that’s rich but balanced.
Add a bit of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar if you’re feeling extra cozy. Whether you’re gifting it like Kiki or enjoying a quiet moment with a slice, this cake feels like a warm hug.
Let’s get to it!
Please note that this post includes affiliate links to tools I use in my kitchen. If you decide to click on a link and make a purchase, I may make a commission at no extra cost to you.
Tips to Make it Even Better!
Use high-quality cocoa powder for a rich flavor. I recommend this Dutch-processed option. I’ve not tasted anything better than this.
Swap hot water with fresh brewed coffee to deepen the chocolate flavor (but it won’t taste like coffee).
If you want a fluffier crumb, use a hand mixer to beat the eggs and sugar for an extra minute before combining.
A parchment-lined cake pan like this one helps prevent sticking and creates perfect edges.
Store the cake in an airtight container to keep it moist for up to 3 days, or freeze individual slices for future Ghibli movie nights.
Kiki’s Bakery-Style Chocolate Cake
Course: Dessert, BreakfastDifficulty: Easy8
Slices20
minutes30
minutesIngredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup neutral oil (like canola or sunflower)
½ cup whole milk
½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup hot water or brewed coffee (for depth)
Optional: powdered sugar or whipped cream for topping
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan, then line the bottom with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Add in the oil, milk, yogurt, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour in the hot water (or coffee) slowly while whisking to avoid splashing. The batter will look thin—this is normal and helps create a tender, fluffy texture. Pour it into the prepared cake pan and gently tap the pan on the counter to remove air bubbles.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a bakery-style finish.
- I personally love this when I’m too lazy to cook the next day.
Substitutions and Add-Ins:
Replace yogurt with sour cream, buttermilk, or even dairy-free yogurt if needed.
Add chocolate chips to the batter for melty pockets of chocolate.
Fold in fresh raspberries or a swirl of jam before baking for a fruity twist.
Make it a layered cake by doubling the recipe and adding chocolate ganache between layers.
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and yogurt, and ensure your cocoa is dairy-free.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest, share it with friends, or leave a review below!
Kiki’s bakery-style chocolate cake is more than just dessert—it’s a little ritual of warmth and Whether you’re sharing it with someone or enjoying a slice by yourself, this cake reminds us that simple things—made with care—can be full of magic.
Just like Kiki’s deliveries, every bite is a small act of love.
If you love Studio Ghibli, check out my all my other recipes here.
