Description
Indulge in this Moist Chocolate Fudge Cake layered with silky Chocolate Ganache Frosting and topped with delicate chocolate shavings. This decadent cake combines a tender, fudgy crumb with a glossy, rich ganache that satisfies every chocolate lover’s craving. Perfect for celebrations or a luxurious homemade dessert, it offers deep chocolate flavor, elegant presentation, and moist texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache Frosting
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped (60-70% cocoa recommended)
For Decoration
- Chocolate shavings made from a dark chocolate bar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to maintain a tender and moist batter.
- Bake to Perfection: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake dense and fudgy. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans, then transfer to wire racks.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache Frosting: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to boil. Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt, then stir gently until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and fully combined. Allow the ganache to cool and thicken slightly until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Frost and Decorate the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of ganache over the top. Add the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining ganache using an offset spatula. Finish by garnishing with delicate chocolate shavings created using a vegetable peeler or grater. Chill briefly if needed to set the ganache.
Notes
- Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature to avoid curdling and promote smooth mixing.
- Measure flour correctly by spooning it lightly into your measuring cup and leveling it off to prevent a dry cake.
- Do not skip the buttermilk – it contributes acidity that tenderizes the cake and enhances moisture.
- If the ganache is too runny, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before frosting.
- Use a serrated knife to slice cake layers for cleaner, crumb-free edges.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: chocolate fudge cake, moist chocolate cake, chocolate ganache frosting, indulgent chocolate dessert, homemade chocolate cake, chocolate shavings cake