The Ultimate Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake Recipe

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The Ultimate Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Cake

There are chocolate cakes—and then there’s this chocolate cake. What makes it truly special is the combination of:

  • A rich, full-bodied chocolate flavor from high-quality cocoa powder and hot liquid
  • Buttermilk, which brings unmatched tenderness and a slight tang
  • A silky-smooth, intensely chocolate fudge frosting that sets perfectly but stays soft on the fork

This cake stays moist for days, slices beautifully, and never fails to impress.

Key Ingredients for the Best Chocolate Cake

For the Cake Layers:

  • All-Purpose Flour – Provides the perfect structure while keeping the cake light
  • High-Quality Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Essential for that deep, rich chocolate flavor
  • Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Give the cake its rise and fluffiness
  • Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a subtle tang that enhances chocolate
  • Hot Water or Hot Coffee – Intensifies the chocolate flavor by blooming the cocoa powder
  • Eggs – Provide structure and richness
  • Oil (such as vegetable or canola) – Keeps the cake incredibly moist

For the Fudge Frosting:

  • Unsalted Butter – Gives you better control of salt levels and a rich, creamy base
  • Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious texture
  • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting
  • Cocoa Powder – For a rich, chocolatey depth
  • Vanilla Extract & a Pinch of Salt – Enhance all the flavors

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

  1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps everything mix together evenly for a smooth batter and even baking.
  2. Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until everything is incorporated to keep the crumb tender.
  3. Line Your Pans with Parchment Paper – This ensures easy removal with no sticking or tearing.
  4. Start Checking Early – Begin checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Tools & Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper. Set aside.

2. Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt).
In a separate bowl, combine eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Slowly stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Add hot water (or coffee) last – the batter will be thin, and that’s exactly how it should be.

3. Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

4. Make the Fudge Frosting

In a saucepan or large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add cocoa powder and mix until smooth. Slowly incorporate powdered sugar and heavy cream, alternating to keep the frosting light and fluffy. Add vanilla and salt to finish. The result: a glossy, rich, and dreamy fudge frosting.

5. Assemble the Cake

Once your cake layers are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting between each. Finish with a thick coating all around the top and sides. Use a spatula or cake scraper for a smooth finish or create rustic swirls for a homemade look.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead Layers: Bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature or refrigerate.
  • Frosted Cake Storage: Keeps well at room temperature for 2–3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week (bring to room temp before serving).
  • Freezing: Unfrosted cake layers freeze beautifully. Wrap well in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

Final Thoughts

This Ultimate Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a party, or just treating yourself, this cake delivers pure chocolate bliss in every bite.

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