There’s nothing quite like the moment when a rich, chocolatey aroma fills your kitchen, creating an atmosphere that instantly lifts your spirits. Enter the Ultimate Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream, Salted Caramel, and Dark Chocolate Ganache—a dessert that promises to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Picture moist layers of decadent chocolate cake, embraced by a sweet, buttery frosting that strikes the perfect balance between salty and sweet. It’s a slice of indulgence that’s not only perfect for birthdays or special gatherings but can also elevate an ordinary weeknight into something truly remarkable. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to indulge in a dessert that will impress both you and your loved ones!
Why is Chocolate Fudge Cake irresistible?
Decadence awaits: This indulgent dessert brings layers of rich chocolate that will captivate your taste buds.
Salted caramel bliss: The sweet-salty buttercream perfectly complements the fudgy cake, creating a heavenly combination.
Celebration-worthy: Ideal for birthdays or gatherings, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike.
Easy to make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll be a baking pro in no time.
Versatile indulgence: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with ice cream for an extra treat!
Chocolate Fudge Cake Ingredients
• Elevate your baking game with this irresistible focus on Chocolate Fudge Cake!
For the Cake
- Butter (200g) – Use unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness of your chocolate fudge cake.
- Caster Sugar (1 ½ cups) – Sweetens the cake while adding to its structure; granulated sugar is a fine substitute if needed.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Opt for pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and avoid imitation types.
- Eggs (3) – Binds the ingredients and provides structure; remember to bring these to room temperature for better mixing.
- Dutch Processed Cocoa (1 cup) – For a rich, dark chocolate flavor; if you prefer something lighter, natural cocoa works too.
- Hot Water (1 cup) – Activates the cocoa powder, ensuring a moist cake.
- Milk (1 ½ cups) – Adds moisture and richness; whole milk is recommended, but any milk will do.
- Vinegar (3 teaspoons) – Activates baking powder for a fluffy cake, but you can replace it with lemon juice if you don’t have any.
- Plain Cake Flour (1 ½ cups) – Provides necessary structure; you can use all-purpose flour, though the texture may vary slightly.
- Baking Powder (2 teaspoons) – Ensures your cake rises beautifully; always check its freshness!
- Bicarbonate of Soda (2 teaspoons) – Works with acidic ingredients for added leavening power.
For the Salted Caramel
- Salted Caramel – Complement your cake layers with this sweet and salty delight; homemade caramel yields the best flavor!
For the Dark Chocolate Ganache
- Dark Chocolate (300g) – The quality of chocolate you choose significantly impacts the ganache’s flavor.
- Heavy Cream (350ml) – Adds richness to your ganache; heat it before mixing with chocolate for a smooth consistency.
For the Buttercream
- Unsalted Butter (for buttercream) – Use room temperature butter for a fluffy, creamy texture in your frosting.
- Icing Sugar – Sifted and blended into the butter for the perfect sweet balance in your buttercream.
This selection of ingredients not only showcases the rich chocolate fudge cake concept, but also ensures that your dessert reaches the heights of indulgence that every chocolate lover dreams of!
How to Make Chocolate Fudge Cake
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and prepare two 20cm (8-inch) cake pans by greasing them and lining with baking paper to prevent sticking.
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Cream the butter, caster sugar, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
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Mix the Dutch processed cocoa with hot water until it forms a smooth paste, then gradually add this cocoa mixture into the butter and sugar blend.
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Combine vinegar with milk in a separate bowl. Sift the cake flour, baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda in another bowl. Alternate adding the flour mixture and the soured milk to the cocoa batter, starting and ending with the flour mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
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Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 23 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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Prepare the salted caramel by melting sugars and butter over medium heat. Stir in cream and salt, then allow it to cool and thicken.
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Make the ganache by melting dark chocolate and slowly stirring in heated cream until smooth. Let cool to a pourable consistency.
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Beat the butter for the buttercream until fluffy. Sift in icing sugar and mix, then incorporate the cooled salted caramel until fully combined. Refrigerate to firm up.
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Assemble the cake by stacking the cooled layers with buttercream and salted caramel in between. Top with ganache and any extra buttercream if desired.
Optional: For added flair, sprinkle with sea salt on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Fudge Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and rich flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the chocolate fudge cake. Store it in an airtight container, where it will last for up to 5 days.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil; it can stay frozen for up to 3 months without compromising taste.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake after freezing, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore its softness.
What to Serve with Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream?
Transform your dessert into a delightful spread that will tantalize your taste buds and create lasting memories.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess cuts through the rich chocolate and caramel, offering a refreshing balance with each bite.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake, adding a pop of color and extra juiciness.
- Espresso or Coffee: The warmth and slight bitterness of a freshly brewed cup enhance the chocolate flavors, making each mouthful even more indulgent.
- Chocolate Covered Pretzels: These crunchy and salty treats add a delightful texture, creating a satisfying contrast to the moist, fudgy cake.
- Whipped Cream: A light dollop adds an airy quality and can be flavored with vanilla or a splash of liqueur for extra flair.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling additional warm salted caramel over each slice amplifies the dessert experience, making it even more luxurious.
- Chocolate Mousse: A rich mousse on the side will deepen the chocolate experience, providing a silky counterpart to the cake’s dense texture.
- Hazelnut Milkshake: This nutty, sweet shake beautifully complements the cake’s flavors and adds a fun twist to your dessert table.
Make Ahead Options
These Ultimate Chocolate Fudge Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without compromising on flavor! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance by baking and cooling them completely, then wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The salted caramel and ganache can also be made up to 2 days ahead; just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their luscious consistency. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the cake with the buttercream and toppings, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Fudge Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and a well-emulsified cake for your chocolate fudge cake.
- Don’t Overmix: After adding the flour and milk, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake for doneness a few minutes before the recommended bake time. Overbaking can dry out your indulgent chocolate fudge cake.
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavors, choose high-quality cocoa and chocolate. They directly impact the taste of your salted caramel buttercream and ganache.
- Cool Completely: Let the cakes cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and slipping of your luscious salted caramel buttercream.
- Chill the Buttercream: If your buttercream seems too soft, chill it briefly. A firmer buttercream is easier to spread and pipe for a beautiful finish.
Chocolate Fudge Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful cake your own with these fun twists!
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Cream Cheese Swap: Replace half the butter in the buttercream with cream cheese for a tangy, rich flavor.
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Flavor Infusion: Add flavored extracts like almond, hazelnut, or orange to the buttercream for a unique touch. The choice of extract can dramatically alter the cake’s essence!
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Nutty Crunch: Top your cake with chopped pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts to add a satisfying crunch alongside the smooth frosting.
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Zesty Surprise: Incorporate orange zest into the batter or buttercream for a refreshing citrus twist that beautifully complements the chocolate.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a surprising flavorful punch that elevates the richness.
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Decadent Drizzle: Instead of ganache, try a rich caramel sauce drizzled over the top for a sticky sweet addition you won’t be able to resist.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free butter alternative for the buttercream, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of indulgence.
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Fruity Layering: Add layers of ripe strawberries or raspberries between the cake’s layers for a burst of freshness and a little tartness.
Each variation opens up a world of flavor possibilities, making your indulgent cake a reflection of your tastes!
Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Recipe FAQs
What kind of chocolate is best for the ganache?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture of your dark chocolate ganache, I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao. This provides a rich, deep flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cake and salted caramel.
How do I know when my chocolate fudge cake is done baking?
Very! You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, your fudge cake is ready. To avoid overbaking and a dry texture, start checking a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
How should I store leftover chocolate fudge cake?
Certainly! To keep your cake fresh and moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze chocolate fudge cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your chocolate fudge cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil after it’s completely cooled. It will maintain its deliciousness and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revitalize its softness.
What if my buttercream is too soft?
Not an issue at all! If your salted caramel buttercream seems too soft to spread, refrigerate it for about 15-20 minutes to firm it up. You can also add a little more sifted icing sugar, mixing briefly until your buttercream reaches the desired consistency. A firmer buttercream makes for perfect spreading and decorating!
How do I ensure my cake layers are even?
To achieve perfectly even cake layers, I recommend using a kitchen scale to measure your batter accurately. Divide your batter equally between the prepared pans for consistent height and baking. Additionally, using cake strips around your pans during baking can help maintain even temperatures, preventing doming, and leading to a beautifully flat top.
Decadent Chocolate Fudge Cake with Salted Caramel Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and prepare two 20cm (8-inch) cake pans by greasing them and lining with baking paper.
- Cream the butter, caster sugar, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time.
- Mix the Dutch processed cocoa with hot water until smooth, then gradually add this to the butter and sugar blend.
- Combine vinegar with milk in a bowl. Sift cake flour, baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda in another. Alternate adding flour and soured milk to the cocoa batter.
- Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 23 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Prepare the salted caramel by melting sugars and butter over medium heat. Stir in cream and salt, then allow to cool and thicken.
- Make the ganache by melting dark chocolate and slowly stirring in heated cream until smooth.
- Beat the butter for the buttercream until fluffy. Sift in icing sugar and mix, then incorporate the cooled salted caramel.
- Assemble the cake by stacking the layers with buttercream and salted caramel. Top with ganache and any extra buttercream.