Rich, decadent, and indulgent, this Chocolate Fudge Cake is the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. With moist chocolate layers and a smooth fudge frosting, this cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any time you’re craving something truly special.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Fudge Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup heavy cream (or more as needed)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but this helps make the cake moist.
2. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Fudge Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the heavy cream, and beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and melted chocolate chips (optional) for an extra fudgy texture. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream if needed.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of fudge frosting over the top.
- Repeat with the second and third layers.
- Use the remaining frosting to cover the sides and top of the cake.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the cake and serve immediately, or chill for a firmer texture. This cake is best enjoyed with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee!
Tips for Chocolate Fudge Cake:
- Extra Fudgy: For an extra-rich cake, add chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Make-Ahead: You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and freeze them for up to 1 month. Thaw the layers before frosting and assembling.
FAQs About Chocolate Fudge Cake:
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.
Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang, but if you don’t have it, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the baked and cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw the cake layers before frosting and serving.
This Chocolate Fudge Cake is a dream come true for chocolate lovers, with its moist layers and rich fudge frosting. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, this cake is sure to impress with every bite.