Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup white sugar; 1/2 cup milk; 1 egg; 1/2 cup oil; 1 tsp vanilla; Caramel sauce and brown sugar topping

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This Moist Chocolate Cake with Brown Sugar Crumble is decadently rich, ultra-moist, and topped with a crunchy brown sugar topping that adds the perfect texture and caramelized flavor to each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combining deep chocolate flavor with a buttery brown sugar topping, this cake is as indulgent as it is easy to make. It’s perfect for birthdays, holiday desserts, or when you’re simply craving a homemade chocolate treat.

Ingredients

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

All-purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Baking soda
Salt
Sugar
Eggs
Buttermilk
Vegetable oil
Hot water or coffee
Vanilla extract
Brown sugar
Butter

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, beat sugar, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, then stir in hot water or coffee.
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and melted butter to form a crumble topping.
Sprinkle topping over the cake batter.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Espresso Infused: Use strong brewed coffee for deeper chocolate notes.
Nutty Topping: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the crumble.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without buttermilk?

Yes, substitute with milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

Does the coffee make it taste like mocha?

No, it enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a coffee taste.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

Is the crumble topping crunchy?

Yes, it creates a light, sugary crunch that complements the soft cake.

Can I use dark chocolate cocoa powder?

Yes, it deepens the flavor and works wonderfully in this recipe.

How do I make it vegan?

Use plant-based milk, oil, and egg substitutes.

Can I add frosting?

Yes, a chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting pairs nicely.

What size pan should I use?

An 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish works well.

Can I make cupcakes with this batter?

Yes, adjust the baking time to 18–20 minutes for cupcakes.

How do I keep it moist?

Do not overbake, and store covered to retain moisture.

Conclusion

Moist Chocolate Cake with Brown Sugar Crumble is a luscious dessert that’s simple to prepare and utterly satisfying. With its soft crumb and crisp topping, it’s a chocolate dessert that everyone will request again and again.