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Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake
A decadent celebration of deep cocoa flavor, moist crumb, and luscious layers.
Introduction
Chocolate fudge cake isn’t just dessert—it’s comfort, tradition, and indulgence wrapped into one bite. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bringing dessert to a dinner, or simply craving something luxurious, this cake delivers rich layers of chocolate sponge hugged by velvety fudge. Loved by generations, it’s a timeless classic with room for creativity.
A Little History
The layered chocolate cake as we know it took shape in the early 20th century when home baking became more accessible. The addition of cocoa and chocolate frostings became popular in the U.S. around the 1920s. Fudge frosting emerged soon after as a thicker, more indulgent alternative to buttercream. Today, a chocolate fudge layer cake remains the centerpiece of celebrations and chocolate lovers’ dreams.
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers
- All-purpose flour: 3 1/2 cups
- Granulated sugar: 2 1/2 cups
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1 cup
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Whole milk: 1 1/2 cups
- Large eggs: 3
- Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
- Hot water: 1 cup (for deepening the cocoa bloom)
For the Fudge Frosting
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks)
- Cocoa powder: 3/4 cup
- Powdered sugar: 4 cups
- Whole milk or cream: 1/2 cup (plus more if needed)
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Carefully stir in the hot water (batter will be thin—this is normal).
- Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
- Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Fudge Frosting
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in cocoa powder until smooth.
- Remove from heat and alternate adding powdered sugar and milk, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt. If frosting is too thick, add a little more milk until spreadable.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Level the cake layers if needed.
- Place one layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread frosting evenly on top.
- Repeat with remaining layers, then frost the top and sides of the cake.
- For a sleek finish, smooth the frosting with a bench scraper or offset spatula.
Formation Tips (Methods of Perfection)
- Blooming Cocoa: Adding hot water enhances chocolate depth.
- Room Temp Ingredients: Eggs and milk should be at room temperature to ensure smooth mixing.
- Chill Before Slicing: For cleaner slices, refrigerate cake 30 minutes before cutting.
- Flavor Add-Ons: Fold in mini chocolate chips or espresso powder to the batter for extra intensity.
For Chocolate Lovers
This cake is a tribute to all chocolate lovers who know there’s no such thing as too rich. Whether enjoyed with coffee, milk, or a scoop of ice cream, it’s a hug in cake form. You can dress it up with ganache drips, chocolate curls, or keep it rustic and homey.
Conclusion
The Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. From the aroma that fills your kitchen to the smile on someone’s face after the first bite, it brings joy with every layer. Whether you’re baking for someone special or treating yourself, this cake is made for moments that matter.
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