Name: Best Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups (330 grams) all-purpose flour (regular or gluten-free); 2 3/4 cups (546 grams) granulated sugar; 1 cup (99 grams) Dutch process cocoa powder; 2 1/8 teaspoons baking soda; 7/8 teaspoon salt; 1 5/8 cups plus 1 tablespoon (383 grams) hot coffee or water; 1/2 cup (112 grams) neutral-flavored cooking oil (avocado, vegetable, canola, sunflower, etc.); 3/4 cup (181 grams) buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 7 1/2 ounces (213 grams) semisweet baking chocolate, finely chopped; 1 7/8 cups (425 grams) salted butter, softened; 3 3/4 cups (425 grams) confectioner’s sugar, sifted; 10 tablespoons (62 grams) Dutch process cocoa powder, sifted; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

If you’ve ever dreamed of sinking your teeth into a rich, luscious dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you’re in for a treat with the Best Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe. This cake is not just any chocolate cake—it combines intense cocoa flavor, moist crumb, and a silky smooth chocolate buttercream frosting that will have you swooning from the very first bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something decadently chocolatey, this recipe promises simplicity paired with extraordinary taste and texture, making it your go-to chocolate indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of several baking ingredients arranged around the edges on a white marbled surface. On the top right, there is a white bowl full of flour with a light and fluffy texture. Below it, a small white bowl contains sugar, next to a round bowl filled with dark brown cocoa powder and a silver spoon resting in it. Below the cocoa powder, there's a small container of white liquid, possibly milk or cream. Two brown eggs lie on a soft beige cloth near the top center, slightly overlapping the flour bowl. Near the top left, a glass cup holds black coffee with visible steam slightly rising from it. On the bottom left, a white bowl is filled with fine white sugar. In the center, there is a small yellow bowl with melted butter. Near the bowls, there is also a metal whisk placed diagonally across the cloth. The whole setup looks clean and prepared for baking, captured in a light and soft tone. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Though the ingredient list might look long, every component in this recipe is straightforward and essential for creating the perfect texture, flavor, and color that make the Best Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe so unforgettable. From the deep richness of Dutch process cocoa to the tang of buttermilk that tenderizes the crumb, each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting this chocolate masterpiece.

All-purpose flour (2 3/4 cups/330 grams): Forms the sturdy yet tender base for the cake layers, suitable for regular or gluten-free baking.
Granulated sugar (2 3/4 cups/546 grams): Adds sweetness and helps create a moist crumb.
Dutch process cocoa powder (1 cup/99 grams): Gives the cake its deep, rich chocolate flavor and dark color.
Baking soda (2 1/8 teaspoons): Works as a leavening agent for a light, fluffy texture.
Salt (7/8 teaspoon): Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
Hot coffee or water (1 5/8 cups plus 1 tablespoon/383 grams): Intensifies the chocolate depth and keeps the cake moist.
Neutral-flavored cooking oil (1/2 cup/112 grams): Keeps the cake tender and moist without overpowering flavor.
Buttermilk (3/4 cup/181 grams): Adds tanginess and reacts with baking soda for lift and fluffiness.
Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness.
Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Enhances all the chocolatey notes in the cake.
White vinegar (1 tablespoon): Activates baking soda and contributes to the cake’s tender crumb.
Semisweet baking chocolate (7 1/2 ounces/213 grams, finely chopped): Adds extra chocolate richness to the frosting.
Salted butter (1 7/8 cups/425 grams, softened): Creates a creamy base for the luscious frosting.
Confectioner’s sugar (3 3/4 cups/425 grams, sifted): Sweetens and thickens the frosting while giving it a silky texture.
Dutch process cocoa powder (10 tablespoons/62 grams, sifted): Infuses the frosting with deep chocolate flavor.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Balances the frosting’s richness with sweet aromatic notes.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Best Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Bakeware and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Grease two 9-inch cake pans thoroughly with butter, then line the bottoms with parchment paper circles. Dust the sides with cocoa powder instead of flour to keep the crust richly chocolatey and avoid white residue—this small step elevates the cake’s overall appearance.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, Dutch process cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Take special care to break up any clumps so that the dry mixture is perfectly smooth—this helps keep the batter uniform and lumps-free.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add the hot coffee or water, neutral oil, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and white vinegar, mixing well after each addition. The coffee or hot water might surprise you, but it brings out a striking richness in the cocoa, almost like magic in the batter.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and fold gently with a spatula until fully combined, taking care not to over-mix. The batter will be thinner than a typical cake batter, so don’t worry—this is what keeps your cake moist and fudgy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans, spreading it out gently. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, place the pans on wire racks and let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

Gently melt the semisweet baking chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, warming it at 50% power in 30-second intervals and stirring in between until silky smooth. While the chocolate cools slightly, cream the softened butter in a stand mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.

Step 7: Combine Frosting Ingredients

Scrape the bowl, then add the sifted confectioner’s sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed to mix, then increase to medium until smooth. With the mixer still running on low, slowly pour the melted chocolate into the frosting, blending until the texture is irresistibly smooth and fluffy.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Carefully remove one cake layer from its pan and place onto your serving plate. Spread a generous, even layer of the chocolate buttercream over its surface. Top with the second cake layer, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Feel free to decorate with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or simply leave it beautifully smooth.

How to Serve Best Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe

A slice of chocolate cake on a white plate with two thick dark brown cake layers separated by a smooth, medium brown chocolate frosting layer. The outer edge of the slice is covered with the same medium brown frosting, and there is a small rosette of frosting on the bottom right corner of the slice. Small chocolate sprinkles are scattered on the plate near the slice. A silver fork rests on the plate to the left of the slice. The background shows the rest of the cake, mostly out of focus, and a white bowl filled with chocolate sprinkles and a light brown wooden spoon. The surface has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Your cake deserves to be dressed up a little! Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a lovely tartness that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate. Whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder can bring elegance and extra creaminess. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a drizzle of caramel sauce or melted chocolate adds a dazzling touch.

Side Dishes

Pair the Best Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or coffee-flavored gelato for a classic combo that excites the palate. For those who love contrast, a small bowl of salted caramel sauce or cherry compote can elevate your dessert to restaurant-quality status.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your cake into a layered dessert parfait by crumbling leftover cake and layering it with frosting and fruit in individual glasses. Alternatively, cut the cake into squares and use them as decadent brownie replacements in ice cream sandwiches. This recipe is flexible and fun, so get creative and watch eyes light up!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, the cake can be stored at room temperature for up to two days in an airtight container to maintain its moist texture. If your kitchen is warm, keep it refrigerated but bring it back to room temperature before serving for optimal softness and flavor.

Freezing

The Best Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bring to room temperature before frosting or serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds to soften the crumb and meld the chocolate flavors beautifully. Avoid overheating, as it can dry out the cake or melt the frosting too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch process cocoa?

Yes, but Dutch process cocoa is preferred for its smooth, mellow flavor and darker color. Regular cocoa powder may make the cake slightly more acidic and less rich in taste.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suited for baking, ensuring it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain structure.

Why does the recipe call for vinegar?

Vinegar reacts with baking soda to create carbon dioxide bubbles, which help the cake rise and develop a tender crumb while enhancing the chocolate flavor.

How long does the cake stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the cake stays fresh and moist for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, refrigeration or freezing is recommended.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, the frosting can be made up to two days in advance. Keep it covered tightly in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature, then re-whip before using to restore its fluffy texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Best Chocolate Fudge Cake Recipe — the way it effortlessly blends deep, luscious chocolate with a tender crumb and dreamy frosting is nothing short of pure joy. Sharing this cake with loved ones is one of life’s sweetest pleasures, and I can’t wait for you to bake it yourself and make some delicious memories.