ADVERTISEMENT
Decadent Chocolate Fudge Cake: A Rich and Creamy Delight
This chocolate fudge cake is the epitome of indulgence, combining the richness of chocolate with a creamy, smooth texture. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat, this cake is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making this decadent dessert from scratch.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup boiling water
For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
For Dusting:
ADVERTISEMENT
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the Chocolate Cake:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water until fully incorporated. The batter will be thin, but this is normal.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy.
- Sift in the cocoa powder and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, and beat on low speed until combined. Increase to high speed and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.
- Make the Ganache Topping:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt, then stir until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool to room temperature before using.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake is completely cooled, place it on a serving platter. Spread a thick layer of chocolate fudge frosting over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it with a spatula.
- Pour the cooled ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the top of the cake with cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
- Chill and Serve:
- Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the frosting and ganache to set.
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and intense chocolate flavor of this decadent chocolate fudge cake.
Additional Tips:
- Flavor Enhancements:
- For an extra flavor boost, add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the boiling water used in the cake batter. Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
- Storing the Cake:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake can also be frozen for longer storage; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
- Serving Suggestions:
- For a truly indulgent experience, serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
By following this guide, you can create a decadent chocolate fudge cake that is sure to impress. This rich and creamy dessert is perfect for any occasion, providing a luxurious treat that will delight chocolate lovers.
