Chocolate Fudge Cake

Description:

Rich, moist, and intensely chocolaty, this Chocolate Fudge Cake is a dream come true for chocolate lovers. Topped with a luscious fudge frosting, this decadent dessert is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply indulging in a slice of pure bliss.

Origin:

A timeless favorite in bakeries worldwide, the chocolate fudge cake’s origins are tied to the love of dense, rich chocolate desserts, often found in both American and European cuisine.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) hot coffee or boiling water

For the Fudge Frosting:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (adjust as needed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the sugars, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until combined. Slowly stir in the hot coffee or water until the batter is smooth and thin.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Fudge Frosting:

7. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the cocoa powder and beat until combined.
8. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and heavy cream, alternating between the two, until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Assemble the Cake:

9. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
10. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly. Use a spatula to create swirls or smooth out the frosting for a sleek finish.

Serve:

11. Slice and serve your chocolate fudge cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality cocoa powder for a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
• Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• For an extra fudgy texture, store the cake in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Recommendations:

• Add chocolate chips or a layer of ganache for an even more decadent treat.
• Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 12 servings):

• Calories: ~480
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 68g
• Sugar: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg

This Chocolate Fudge Cake is the ultimate indulgence, offering a perfect balance of moist cake and creamy frosting to satisfy any chocolate craving. ✨