Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake

Name: Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Dessert Magic

I absolutely adore making this Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake for any occasion. There's something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a cake that combines the deep richness of dark chocolate with a fudgy, moist texture. It never fails to impress my family and friends, and I love seeing their smiles as they take the first bite. The best part? It’s straightforward to make, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking to indulge in chocolatey goodness.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:53:36.753Z

When I first attempted the Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake, I was amazed by how a few simple ingredients could yield such a rich, decadent dessert. I learned that using high-quality dark chocolate truly makes a significant difference in flavor. I also experimented with reducing the sugar slightly, which allowed the chocolate's natural bitterness to shine through beautifully. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience!

One of my favorite tips is to slightly underbake the cake for a fudgier texture, which perfectly contrasts with the glossy chocolate ganache. I adore pairing it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust me, once you try this decadent cake, you'll find every excuse to make it again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Intense dark chocolate flavor that satisfies every chocolate lover.
Fudgy texture that is rich and indulgent, perfect for dessert cravings.
Versatile enough to serve on special occasions or just because!

Key Techniques for Success

When making this Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake, the key to achieving that rich, moist texture lies in your mixing technique. After combining the wet and dry ingredients, be sure to mix just until smooth—overmixing can lead to a denser cake. Similarly, when adding the boiling water, take care not to splash; incorporate it gradually to maintain an even batter consistency.

Another vital technique is in the baking process. To ensure even cooking, position your cake pans in the center of the oven, leaving space between them for hot air circulation. Check for doneness by gently pressing the top of the cakes; they should spring back lightly. Additionally, invest in an oven thermometer to ensure your oven’s true temperature aligns with the setting.

Ingredient Insights

The use of dark cocoa powder is essential for the intense chocolate flavor in this recipe. Unlike regular cocoa powder, dark cocoa has a deeper flavor profile and contributes to the cake's rich color. If you cannot find dark cocoa, you can substitute it with regular unsweetened cocoa, but the overall taste may not be as robust.

Using whole milk instead of low-fat alternatives enriches the batter and enhances the cake's density. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, almond milk can work well as a substitute, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different. Also, if you’d like to cut down on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute, but be sure to follow the recommended conversion ratio as some alternatives are sweeter than sugar.

Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake

Gather these ingredients to create a deliciously rich fudge cake.

Cake Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
1 cup dark chocolate chips

Ganache Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

Follow the steps below to bake your Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake!

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well combined.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until smooth. Gradually stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined and thin.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the dark chocolate chips gently into the batter.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The cakes should spring back when lightly touched.

Cool the Cakes

Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Ganache

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just boiling. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Pour a generous amount of ganache over the top, then place the second layer on top and finish with the remaining ganache.

Let the ganache set for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, consider adding a splash of espresso to the boiling water when preparing the batter. It enhances the chocolate flavor remarkably!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake can be made ahead of time, allowing flavors to develop beautifully. Once baked and cooled, the cakes can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, the cakes freeze exceptionally well. Wrap each cake layer individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, where they can last up to 3 months.

If you wish to enjoy the cake later, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before frosting or serving. The ganache, too, can be made ahead; just reheat gently over low heat to restore its glossy finish before pouring over the cake.

Serving Suggestions

To serve this fudgy cake, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream; the contrast of temperatures creates a delightful experience. For added flair, garnish with fresh raspberries or a sprig of mint to bring a pop of color to the presentation.

Additionally, consider serving slices with a drizzle of espresso or coffee. The warm beverage enhances the chocolate flavor and elevates the overall indulgence. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the ganache before serving, which will accentuate the sweetness and create a delicious balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

While you can, using milk chocolate will make the cake sweeter and less decadent. For best results, stick with dark chocolate.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes! You can freeze the unassembled cake layers for up to 2 months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute, as it helps with binding the cake.