Classic Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake

Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake recipe creates an incredibly rich, moist, and deep chocolate cake layered with smooth fudge buttercream.

Every bite melts in the mouth, delivering intense cocoa flavor balanced by creamy frosting. I made this Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake to impress guests and satisfy my chocolate craving.

The texture stays soft, the frosting spreads beautifully, and the layers hold their shape. Now I will show up and show step by step how to make this Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake recipe from scratch, including baking, frosting, and final decoration for a stunning result.

Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake recipe

This Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert made for true chocolate lovers. Featuring two moist, deeply flavored chocolate cake layers enhanced with buttermilk and hot coffee, it’s paired with a luscious chocolate fudge buttercream made from real melted chocolate, cocoa powder, and whipped butter.

The combination creates a decadent, smooth, and perfectly sweet cake that’s ideal for birthdays, holidays, or special celebrations. With a soft crumb and creamy frosting, each bite melts in your mouth.

Though it requires some baking experience, the results are well worth it a stunning, bakery-worthy chocolate cake you can proudly make at home.

How To Prepare Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake Recipe?

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus cooling time)

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 servings

Main Kitchen Utensils Needed

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch round cake pans (x3)
• Offset spatula or cake decorating spatula

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake Layers

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) strong brewed hot coffee
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Fudge Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup (100g) Dutch-processed unsweetened cocoa powder
• 6 to 8 cups (720–960g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 4 ounces (113g) bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream or whole milk, more if needed
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

How To Make Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake

To ensure your Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake turns out perfectly, I’ve broken down each step with simple instructions and helpful tips.

I’ve also included a list of kitchen tools I recommend though not all are necessary, they’ll make baking smoother.

Don’t worry if you’re missing a few; with what you have, you’ll still bake a rich, delicious chocolate cake!

1. Prepare the Pans and Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 9-inches round cake pans, line the bottoms with parchment paper, and dust lightly with cocoa powder or flour. Set the pans aside.

2. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high until light and fluffy this takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Mix Wet and Dry Components

Lower the mixer speed. Add half the dry mixture to the creamed butter, followed by the buttermilk. Add the remaining dry ingredients, and then pour in the hot coffee. Mix just until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin this is normal.

5. Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Place them on the center rack and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check with a toothpick it should come out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, and then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

6. Prepare the Fudge Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add cocoa powder and melted chocolate, mixing until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream. Continue mixing until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. Add vanilla and a pinch of salt, and beat another minute or two. Adjust consistency with more cream or sugar if needed.

7. Assemble the Cake

Level the cooled cake layers if necessary. Place the first layer on a cake board or plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Repeat with the next two layers. Cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

8. Chill and Serve

Place the assembled cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help set the frosting. Let it sit at room temperature before serving to bring out the best texture and flavor. Slice and serve.

Nutrition Facts Of Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	670
Fat	38g
Saturated Fat	23g
Carbohydrates	80g
Sugar	60g
Protein	6g
Sodium	400mg
Fiber	3g

Why My Recipe Works

This recipe works because it balances moisture, richness, and structure perfectly. The combination of buttermilk and hot coffee creates a moist, tender crumb while enhancing the chocolate flavor.

Using both baking soda and baking powder ensures the cake rises evenly without becoming too dense. Softened butter adds flavor and a light texture when creamed with sugar.

The fudge buttercream uses real melted chocolate and cocoa powder for depth, and whipped butter and cream give it a smooth, airy consistency.

Each ingredient is chosen to build flavor, texture, and stability, resulting in a layered cake that holds together and tastes incredible.

What Does Chocolate Fudge Cake Taste Like?

Chocolate fudge cake tastes rich, deep, and intensely chocolatey. The cake layers are moist and tender, with a slightly dense texture that feels almost like a soft brownie.

The flavor is bold but balanced, with a bittersweet cocoa bitterness softened by sweetness. The fudge buttercream adds a creamy, velvety smoothness with an extra burst of chocolate richness and a hint of sweetness.

Together, the cake and frosting create a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both indulgent and satisfying without being overly sweet. It’s a true chocolate lover’s dream.

How Can I Decorate And Serving?

To decorate the Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake, start by applying a thin crumb coat of frosting around the entire cake to seal in loose crumbs.

Chill it for 15–20 minutes, then add a thicker, even layer of fudge buttercream using an offset spatula. Smooth the top and sides or create swirls and rustic textures for a homemade look.

You can add chocolate shavings, curls, or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top. Garnish with berries or sprinkle with cocoa powder if desired.

For serving chocolate fudge layer cake, slice with a warm knife for clean cuts. Serve each slice at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

When To Serve

Serve the Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake at room temperature to enjoy its full flavor and creamy texture. It’s ideal for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, or special gatherings where a rich dessert is appreciated.

The Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake also works well as an indulgent weekend treat or anytime you want to impress guests with a homemade dessert.

After frosting, letting it chill briefly helps the layers set, but before serving, allow it to sit out for about 30 minutes so the buttercream softens slightly, making each bite smooth and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

My Tips For Success

➤ Room Temperature Ingredients Matter: Having butter, eggs, and buttermilk at room temperature helps everything blend seamlessly, creating a smooth, well-incorporated batter that bakes evenly.

➤ Don’t Skip the Coffee: Adding hot brewed coffee may sound unusual, but it intensifies the chocolate flavor, making the cake richer without leaving any coffee aftertaste.

➤ Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour, cocoa, and leavening agents ensures no lumps, which helps the cake rise evenly and keeps the texture light and tender.

➤ Accurate Measuring is Key: Using a kitchen scale for flour and cocoa powder prevents adding too much, which could dry out your cake or make it dense.

➤ Even Baking: Use two identical pans and position them in the center of the oven. Rotate pans halfway through if needed to avoid uneven baking or domed cakes.

➤ Cool Completely Before Frosting: Patience is essential—if you frost a warm cake, the buttercream will melt and slide off, ruining your beautiful finish.

➤ Adjust Frosting Consistency Gradually: When making the buttercream, add powdered sugar and cream slowly. This helps you get the perfect creamy but spreadable texture that holds shape without being stiff.

Additions And Substitutions

Here are some additions and substitutions you can try for the Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake:

Additions:

• Stir in a handful of chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for extra bursts of melted chocolate.
• Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor even more.
• Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for texture and crunch.
• Layer fresh raspberries or cherries between the cake layers for a fruity contrast.
• Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the frosting to balance sweetness.

Substitutions:

• Use whole milk instead of buttermilk, but add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to sour it slightly.
• Swap out coffee for hot water if you prefer less intense flavor, though coffee enhances richness best.
• Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives to make it vegan-friendly (adjust measurements as needed).
• For a lighter frosting, replace some heavy cream with Greek yogurt or cream cheese, keeping texture creamy but tangy.
• Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for a softer, finer crumb.

Delicious Variations

1. Mocha Fudge Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the cake batter and a splash of coffee to the frosting for a subtle coffee-chocolate twist.

2. Peanut Butter Fudge Cake: Swirl creamy peanut butter into the buttercream frosting or add a layer of peanut butter filling between the cake layers for a rich, nutty flavor.

3. Raspberry Chocolate Cake: Add fresh or frozen raspberries between the layers or swirl raspberry jam into the frosting for a fruity, tangy contrast to the deep chocolate.

4. Spicy Chocolate Cake: Mix a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or chili powder into the batter for a warm, spicy kick that complements the chocolate.

5. Salted Caramel Fudge Cake: Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce between the layers and on top of the frosting for a sweet-and-salty delight.

Storage Recommendations

To keep your Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake fresh and delicious, store it covered in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap.

Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake can be kept at room temperature for up to two days if your kitchen is cool. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake properly wrapped to last up to 5 days.

Before serving, bring it back to room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften the frosting and bring out the flavors.

If you want to freeze the Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

This chocolate fudge layer cake is truly delicious and a favorite for anyone who loves rich chocolate desserts. I enjoyed creating and sharing this recipe because it’s both rewarding and satisfying.

The step-by-step method is straightforward, making it easy to follow and perfect for bakers of all levels. I hope you found the instructions clear and helpful.

Now it’s your turn to try making this chocolate fudge layer cake and enjoy every bite of your homemade chocolate fudge layer cake soon!

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