Super Decadent Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Fudge Frosting – A Chocolate Lover’s Dream
There are chocolate cakes, and then there’s this super decadent chocolate cake with chocolate fudge frosting. This cake is rich, fudgy, and outrageously delicious. The moist cake layers are infused with deep cocoa flavors, perfectly complemented by the velvety chocolate fudge frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this indulgent dessert will satisfy every chocolate craving.
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or when you need a comforting treat, this chocolate cake is a guaranteed showstopper. The secret to its irresistible texture lies in the combination of premium cocoa powder, real butter, and just the right amount of sugar to create an unforgettable dessert experience. Paired with a silky fudge frosting, every bite melts in your mouth.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A deep, rich chocolate taste with a hint of vanilla sweetness that enhances every bite.
- Texture: Moist, tender cake layers with a smooth, creamy, and thick fudge frosting.
- Aroma: The irresistible scent of warm baked chocolate enhanced by buttery richness.
- Visual Appeal: A beautifully layered cake with glossy fudge icing that looks as decadent as it tastes.
- Skill Level Needed: Suitable for intermediate bakers, but beginners can succeed with the correct techniques.
- Special Equipment: A stand mixer or hand mixer, cake pans, parchment paper, and a cooling rack.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate – requires precise measuring, proper mixing, and careful baking for the best results.
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Cuisine: American, Classic Bakery
- Cost: Moderate – requires high-quality cocoa, butter, and chocolate for the frosting.
- Season: Perfect year-round but especially loved in colder months and during the holiday season.
- Occasion: Birthday parties, anniversaries, celebrations, or simply for a weekend treat.
The Recipe
Super Decadent Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Fudge Frosting
Serves: 12
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Two 9-inch cake pans
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Offset spatula
- Wire cooling rack
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
Directions
For the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
- Reduce the speed and slowly add in the boiling water. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until fluffy.
- Sift together powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then gradually mix into the butter.
- Add the salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- If the frosting is too thick, add a little more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time.
Assembling the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides evenly.
- Use an offset spatula to create smooth or decorative swirls.
- Let the cake sit for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the frosting to set.
Recipe Notes
- For extra decadence, garnish with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- You can use espresso powder in the cake batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.