Triple Chocolate Fudge Cake

Short Description

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with this Triple Chocolate Fudge Cake. Featuring rich, moist cake layers, smooth chocolate ganache, and a decadent chocolate frosting, this dessert is perfect for any special occasion or whenever you crave something irresistibly chocolaty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, intense chocolate flavor from three types of chocolate components

• Moist and fudgy cake layers with a tender crumb

• Silky ganache adds luxurious texture between layers

• Smooth and creamy chocolate frosting that’s easy to spread

• Visually stunning for birthdays, holidays, or celebrations

• Easy to make with pantry-friendly ingredients

• Can be made ahead and freezes well

• Great for chocolate lovers of all ages

• Customizable with toppings like berries, nuts, or chocolate curls

• Reliable and consistent results every time

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake Layers

• All-purpose flour

• Granulated sugar

• Unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)

• Baking soda

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Eggs (room temperature)

• Vegetable oil

• Whole milk or buttermilk

• Hot water or strong brewed coffee

• Vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache

• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped

• Heavy cream

For the Chocolate Frosting

• Unsalted butter

• Powdered sugar

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• Heavy cream or milk

• Vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two or three 9-inch round cake pans.

   • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

   • In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla until well combined.

   • Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.

   • Stir in the hot water or coffee until the batter is thin and fully incorporated.

   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

   • Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

   • Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Ganache

   • Heat the cream in a saucepan until just simmering.

   • Pour over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 2–3 minutes.

   • Stir until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly until thickened but still spreadable.

3. Prepare the Frosting

   • Beat the butter until light and creamy.

   • Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and salt, mixing on low speed.

   • Gradually add cream and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy and smooth.

   • Adjust consistency with more cream or sugar as needed.

4. Assemble the Cake

   • Level the cooled cake layers if needed.

   • Place one layer on a cake board or serving plate.

   • Spread a layer of ganache over the cake.

   • Add the next cake layer and repeat.

   • Frost the top and sides with the chocolate frosting.

   • Optional: drizzle leftover ganache on top for a decorative finish.

   • Chill briefly before serving for cleaner slices.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12–16 slices

• Prep Time: 45 minutes

• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes

• Assembly Time: 30–45 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

• Cupcakes: Use the same batter to make approximately 24 cupcakes. Bake for 18–22 minutes.

• Sheet Cake: Bake in a 9×13-inch pan for a simplified version.

• Flavor Boost: Add espresso powder to enhance the chocolate depth.

• Filling Options: Layer with raspberry jam or whipped cream for a twist.

• Frosting Alternatives: Use cream cheese frosting or whipped ganache.

• Decoration: Top with chocolate curls, sprinkles, or fresh berries.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute with non-dairy milk and cream alternatives.

• Nutty Variation: Add chopped walnuts or hazelnuts between layers.

• Mini Cakes: Use smaller pans to make individual-sized cakes.

Storage / Reheating

• Store the assembled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Refrigerate for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving.

• To freeze, wrap unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Frosted cake or slices can also be frozen for 1–2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight.

• Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh texture.

FAQs

What makes this cake “triple chocolate”?

It includes chocolate in three forms: cocoa powder in the cake, chocolate ganache between layers, and chocolate frosting on the outside.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet?

Yes, but the cake will be noticeably sweeter and less intense in chocolate flavor.

Is coffee required in the recipe?

No, but using hot coffee instead of water deepens the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them until ready to assemble.

How do I prevent dry cake layers?

Measure ingredients accurately, don’t overbake, and use buttermilk or whole milk for moisture.

How do I get smooth frosting?

Beat the frosting thoroughly and apply a crumb coat before the final layer of frosting.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, use a commercial egg replacer or substitute with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas.

How can I tell when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Why is the batter so thin?

This is normal for chocolate cake batters using hot liquid—it results in a moist and fudgy texture.

What’s the best way to slice the cake neatly?

Chill the cake before slicing and use a hot, clean knife for each cut.

Conclusion

This Triple Chocolate Fudge Cake is the ultimate treat for chocolate enthusiasts. With layers of moist cake, rich ganache, and creamy frosting, it delivers deep chocolate flavor in every bite. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or simply a craving, this cake is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.