Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake

Name: Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup hot water; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Home Baking Favorites

I have an irresistible weakness for chocolate, and this Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake is my ultimate indulgence. It’s rich, moist, and loaded with intense chocolate flavor, making it perfect for celebrations or simply to satisfy a craving. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a velvety finish that makes it hard to resist. What's more, this cake is surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand for every occasion.

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:21:37.031Z

When I first made this cake, I was astounded by how such a simple recipe could yield such a gourmet dessert. I experimented with different chocolate brands and found that a mix of bittersweet and semisweet chocolates produced the most balanced flavor. The result? A fudge-like texture that takes something ordinary and transforms it into an extraordinary celebration of chocolate.

My secret to a perfect fudge cake lies in the timing. I always emphasize not over-baking it, as this will affect the fudginess of the interior. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. The moment you take it out of the oven, let it rest; this is when the magic happens and the flavors meld beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Cake
Intensely rich chocolate flavor that satiates even the strongest cravings
Decadent texture that feels like a hug in every bite
Easily customizable with various toppings for a personal touch

Understanding Ingredients

The cocoa powder used in the cake plays a crucial role in achieving that intense chocolate flavor. Opt for high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother taste and deeper color. If you're out of cocoa powder, you can substitute it with an equal amount of carob powder, but remember, it will lend a different flavor profile. It's essential to note that using natural cocoa powder will yield a lighter cake, as it interacts differently with baking powder due to its acidity.

Unsalted butter is a preferred choice here because it allows you to control the saltiness of your cake while enhancing the flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil can be substituted in equal amounts, providing a subtle coconut flavor. The eggs are vital for binding the ingredients together and creating airiness; if you're looking for a vegan alternative, consider using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg.

Perfecting the Baking Process

When baking the Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake, keep a close eye on the timing. Every oven is unique, and while 30 minutes is the standard, you should check for doneness a couple of minutes before the time is up. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. If you notice the edges pulling away from the pan, it's a sign that it's perfectly done.

Cooling the cake appropriately is equally crucial. Allow it to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps set the crumb structure, ensuring it remains moist. For easier handling, you might lightly freeze the cooled cake for about 15 minutes before frosting, as this firm texture makes spreading the frosting much simpler.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup hot water

Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, alternating with hot water. Mix just until combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.

Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

Beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, cream, and vanilla until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and enjoy its rich, decadent flavors with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding chocolate shavings or fresh berries on top of the frosting for decoration.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep your Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, this cake freezes beautifully. Just make sure to wrap it well in foil or freezer-safe bags, and it can last for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and if desired, re-warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to restore the fudginess.

You can also prepare the cake layers in advance. Bake and cool the cake, then wrap the layers and refrigerate them for up to a week before frosting. This is especially handy if you want to break up your baking into manageable chunks, making it a convenient option for busy schedules or special events.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this indulgent Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake, creativity can elevate the experience. Drizzle some chocolate ganache over the top for an extra layer of richness, or add fresh raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing contrast. A sprinkle of sea salt on the frosting can enhance the chocolate flavor, creating a delightful sweet-salty combination that’s hard to resist.

For an extra touch, serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, allowing the warm cake to melt into the cold treat. This contrast in temperature will elevate your dessert experience while adding a creaminess that pairs perfectly with the rich texture of the cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, but reduce the sugar by a tablespoon, as dark chocolate is sweeter.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute; just one tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water works well.