Chocolate “Sofa” Cake Recipe
A chocolate “sofa” cake is a decadent dessert shaped like a cozy sofa, perfect for celebrations and special occasions. This rich, indulgent cake combines the goodness of chocolate with creative artistry to impress both the eyes and the palate.
History of Chocolate Cakes
Chocolate cakes originated in the 18th century when bakers began incorporating cocoa powder into their recipes. Over time, they evolved into various forms, including sculpted cakes. The chocolate “sofa” cake is a modern twist, reflecting artistry and culinary creativity. Its unique shape adds an element of surprise and elegance.
Benefits of Chocolate Cakes
Mood Booster: Chocolate contains compounds like theobromine and phenylethylamine, known to uplift mood.
Rich in Antioxidants: Cocoa is a powerhouse of antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
Energy Source: Chocolate cake provides quick energy due to its sugar and fat content, making it a popular celebratory treat.
Versatility: It serves as a medium for artistic expression, like sculpted designs such as a “sofa.”
Ingredients
For the Cake:
All-Purpose Flour: 2 ½ cups
Cocoa Powder: ¾ cup
Granulated Sugar: 2 cups
Baking Powder: 1 ½ tsp
Baking Soda: 1 ½ tsp
Salt: ½ tsp
Eggs: 3 large
Whole Milk: 1 cup
Vegetable Oil: ½ cup
Vanilla Extract: 2 tsp
Boiling Water: 1 cup
For the Frosting:
Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, softened
Cocoa Powder: ½ cup
Powdered Sugar: 4 cups
Milk: 4–6 tbsp
Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
For Decoration:
Fondant: 2 lbs (various colors for sofa design)
Edible Glue: As needed
Edible Glitter: Optional
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two rectangular cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently.
- Stir in the boiling water slowly to achieve a smooth, pourable batter.
Step 2: Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely before removing them from the pans.
Step 3: Preparing the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add cocoa powder and powdered sugar.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Assembling the Cake
- Trim the edges of the cooled cakes to create a rectangular sofa base.
- Stack layers with frosting in between to secure them.
- Sculpt the backrest, armrests, and cushions from cake scraps or additional fondant.
Step 5: Decorating the Cake
- Cover the entire cake with a thin layer of frosting (crumb coat). Chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out colored fondant to cover the sofa shape.
- Use fondant tools to add realistic details like cushions and patterns.
- Secure fondant pieces with edible glue. Add edible glitter for a glamorous touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 400
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fats: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 30g
Formation and Presentation
The chocolate “sofa” cake is shaped and decorated to mimic a stylish sofa.
Add small edible pillows or a blanket design for extra charm.
Place the cake on a cake board or tray for easy transportation.
Lovers of Chocolate “Sofa” Cake
This cake is adored by:
Chocolate Lovers: For its rich and velvety flavor.
Baking Enthusiasts: As it showcases sculpting and decorating skills.
Celebrators: Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, and themed parties.
Artistic Individuals: Who appreciate edible art and creativity.
Conclusion
The chocolate “sofa” cake is more than a dessert—it’s a masterpiece that combines flavor, creativity, and artistry. Its unique design brings joy to any occasion, leaving a lasting impression. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a chocolate lover, this cake promises a delightful experience that’s as much fun to create as it is to eat!