Chocolate Fudge Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. Rich, moist, and deeply decadent, this cake is layered or topped with a thick, glossy fudge glaze or ganache. Whether served as a birthday cake, dinner party finale, or weekend treat, it’s the kind of dessert that satisfies every craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake delivers on all fronts: intense chocolate flavor, soft texture, and a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth finish. The fudge topping adds an extra layer of richness that sets it apart from regular chocolate cakes. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to be the centerpiece of any dessert table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Buttermilk
Strong brewed coffee (or hot water)
Dark chocolate (for ganache or chunks)
Heavy cream (for ganache)
Optional: chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pan(s).
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well, then mix in vanilla.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
Stir in the coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor and loosen the batter.
Pour into prepared pan(s) and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
For the fudge glaze, heat heavy cream until just simmering, then pour over chopped dark chocolate. Let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Allow the cake to cool completely before topping with the fudge glaze.
Garnish with additional chocolate chunks or shavings if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 10–12 and takes about 1 hour total, including baking and cooling time.

Variations

Add espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Use a chocolate cream cheese frosting instead of ganache for a tangy contrast.
Incorporate nuts or caramel sauce between layers for extra texture.
Make it gluten-free using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Add a layer of raspberry or cherry preserves for a fruity twist.

storage/reheating

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat a slice, microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey bite. The cake also freezes well, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a day or two in advance and add the glaze just before serving.

What makes this cake fudgy?

The use of coffee, buttermilk, and ganache topping keeps the cake rich and moist.

Can I skip the coffee?

Yes, replace it with hot water, though coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without being noticeable.

Is this cake too sweet?

It’s well-balanced, especially with dark chocolate. Reduce sugar slightly for a less sweet version.

Can I use milk chocolate instead?

Dark chocolate is recommended for depth, but milk chocolate can be used for a lighter flavor.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and coconut cream for the ganache.

Can I double this recipe for a layer cake?

Yes, double the ingredients and divide evenly between two cake pans.

What’s the best way to slice the cake?

Use a warm knife for clean slices—dip in hot water and wipe dry before cutting.

Can I use a bundt pan?

Yes, grease it well and adjust baking time as needed—about 45–50 minutes.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Conclusion

Chocolate Fudge Cake is a show-stopping dessert that delivers deep flavor and decadent texture with every bite. Whether for special occasions or everyday indulgence, this cake brings timeless comfort and irresistible richness to the table. One slice is never enough.

Chocolate Fudge Cake

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Chocolate Fudge Cake is a rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey dessert layered or topped with a smooth fudge frosting, perfect for special occasions or satisfying your chocolate cravings.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 slices 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin). Pour evenly into prepared pans.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
To make the frosting, melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in cocoa powder. Alternately add powdered sugar and milk, beating to spreading consistency. Stir in vanilla.
Frost cooled cake layers with fudge frosting. Decorate as desired.