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Decadent Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Fudge Frosting Recipe

This Decadent Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Fudge Frosting is a rich, moist, chocolate lover’s dream. It’s easy to make, stores beautifully, and delivers bakery-quality flavor with every slice.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Cooling Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup freshly brewed coffee or hot water if preferred

For the Chocolate Fudge Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate melted and slightly cooled

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper circles.
  • In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
  • Slowly add the hot coffee and stir until the batter is smooth. It will be thin.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting:

  • Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy.
  • Sift in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Beat until well combined.
  • Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract and beat until smooth.
  • Pour in the melted chocolate and beat until the frosting is glossy and spreadable.

Assemble:

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
  • Spread a thick layer of frosting over the top.
  • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
  • Smooth the frosting or create swirls for a rustic look.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the batter—mix until just combined to keep the crumb tender.
  • The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee. Hot water is a fine substitute if you prefer.
  • Use good-quality chocolate for the frosting. It makes a big difference.
  • Let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.