Chocolate Fudge Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that boasts a moist, dense crumb and a deep chocolate flavor. Topped with a smooth fudge glaze and garnished with chocolate chunks, this cake is the perfect treat for chocolate lovers. Its gooey center and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it ideal for special occasions or any time you crave a luxurious sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Fudge Cake is beloved for its intense chocolate flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s what makes this recipe a favorite:

Ultra-moist texture: The combination of cocoa, butter, and rich fudge sauce keeps the cake tender and dense with a melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Decadent flavor: Every bite is filled with the deep, rich taste of chocolate, complemented by the sweetness of the glaze.
Simple yet impressive: This cake is easy to prepare but looks and tastes like something from a gourmet bakery.
Perfect for all occasions: From birthdays to dinner parties, this cake suits any event where you want to wow your guests with a chocolate masterpiece.

Ingredients

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

all-purpose flour
unsweetened cocoa powder
granulated sugar
brown sugar
baking powder
baking soda
salt
buttermilk
eggs
unsalted butter (melted)
vanilla extract
hot water or coffee (to intensify the chocolate flavor)
chocolate chunks (for topping)
heavy cream (for glaze)
semi-sweet chocolate chips (for glaze)

Directions

Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or cake pan of your choice.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and hot water or coffee.
Make the batter: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth and well combined.
Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the glaze: Heat the heavy cream until simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth.
Glaze and decorate: Pour the fudge glaze over the cooled cake and sprinkle with chocolate chunks. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, baking time is 45-55 minutes, and cooling plus glazing adds another 30-40 minutes.

Variations

Chocolate Fudge Cake is easy to customize:

Add espresso powder: Boost the chocolate flavor with a teaspoon of espresso powder in the batter.
Spiced fudge cake: Include a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a subtle warmth.
Filled version: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or cream cheese filling in the center.
Nutty topping: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the glaze for added crunch.

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, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the glaze and restore the fudgy texture.

FAQs

What makes this cake fudgy rather than fluffy?

The high fat content from butter and the rich glaze, combined with the use of buttermilk and hot liquid, create a moist, dense crumb rather than a light and airy one.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, vegetable oil can replace butter for an even moister texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

It can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days, but refrigeration is recommended if storing longer or in warm climates.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. The cake can be baked and glazed a day ahead and stored covered until serving.

Can I freeze Chocolate Fudge Cake?

Yes, wrap the cooled, unglazed cake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Be sure to grease and flour the pan thoroughly, or use a baking spray that contains flour.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a whole cake?

Yes, use the same batter for cupcakes. Adjust the baking time to about 18-22 minutes.

How can I make the glaze shinier?

Adding a teaspoon of corn syrup or a small knob of butter to the glaze will give it a glossier finish.

What can I serve with Chocolate Fudge Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries to balance its richness.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but doing so may affect the cake’s texture and moisture level.

Conclusion

Chocolate Fudge Cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate enthusiasts, offering a perfect balance of moist cake and luscious fudge glaze. Its rich flavor, tender crumb, and elegant presentation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion where you want to impress. Whether served as the centerpiece of a celebration or enjoyed as a comforting treat, this cake never fails to delight.

Chocolate Fudge Cake

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Chocolate Donut is a classic treat that combines a rich, moist chocolate dough with a sweet glaze or dusting of sugar. These donuts are soft, tender, and bursting with deep cocoa flavor, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an indulgent snack.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (baking) or 4-5 minutes (frying)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8-10 donuts
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking or Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan, or heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
For baked donuts: Pipe or spoon the batter into the donut pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when touched.
For fried donuts: Roll out the dough, cut into rings, and fry each for about 1-2 minutes per side until puffed and cooked through.
For glaze: Melt chocolate chips with a splash of cream or milk. Dip cooled donuts into the glaze and let set on a wire rack.
For sugar coating: Roll warm donuts in powdered sugar.
Serve the donuts fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a spicier twist, mix in a dash of cinnamon into the batter.
To make mini donuts, use a mini donut pan and adjust the baking time to 6-8 minutes.
Use gel or paste food coloring in the glaze for added color if desired.
Glazed donuts should not be reheated for too long, as the glaze may melt excessively.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 donut
Calories: 220
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg