Chocolate Boba Cake

Chocolate Boba Cake is a delightful fusion dessert that combines the rich, moist layers of chocolate cake with the chewy, syrupy goodness of tapioca pearls. This modern treat marries classic patisserie style with the trendy texture of bubble tea pearls, offering a unique and indulgent experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert stands out for its contrast of textures—soft, fudgy cake and chewy boba pearls, all brought together with a luscious chocolate glaze. It’s a perfect treat for boba lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, adding a touch of creativity to the dessert table. Plus, it’s visually stunning and ideal for special occasions or unique celebrations.

ingredients

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

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vegetable oil
• Vanilla extract
• Boiling water
• Instant tapioca pearls (boba)
• Brown sugar (for boba syrup)
• Heavy cream
• Semi-sweet chocolate
• Butter (for ganache or glaze)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Combine with dry ingredients and add boiling water. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Allow to cool completely.
5. Meanwhile, cook tapioca pearls according to package instructions. Once soft, drain and mix with brown sugar to create syrupy coating.
6. For the glaze, heat cream and pour over chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until glossy.
7. Assemble the cake by layering chocolate cake with some boba pearls and glaze. Top with more glaze and arrange pearls on top.
8. Chill for 1 hour before serving for clean slices and firm texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8–10 slices. Preparation takes 30 minutes, baking time is 35 minutes, and chilling requires at least 1 hour.

Variations

• Matcha Boba Cake: Replace cocoa with matcha powder for a green tea twist.
• Coffee Chocolate Cake: Add instant coffee to the batter for a mocha effect.
• Boba-Filled Layers: Mix pearls directly into whipped cream filling between layers.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, oil, and chocolate alternatives.

storage/reheating

Store the cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The boba may harden slightly, so it’s best consumed fresh. To soften pearls again, microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

What kind of boba pearls should I use?

Use instant black tapioca pearls that cook in 5 minutes. Avoid mini pearls or popping boba for this cake.

Can I prepare the boba in advance?

It is best to cook them fresh, but you can store them in syrup for a few hours if needed.

Will the boba become hard in the fridge?

Yes, they firm up in cold storage. Microwave briefly before serving to restore texture.

Can I use store-bought cake mix?

Yes, a chocolate cake mix works if you’re short on time. Follow the package instructions.

How do I stop the boba from sinking?

Add them to the glaze only when it is slightly cooled and thickened so they stay on the surface.

Is this cake overly sweet?

The sweetness is balanced, especially if using dark chocolate and lightly sweetened glaze.

Can I freeze this cake?

It is not recommended due to the boba texture changing when thawed.

How do I ensure the cake is moist?

Do not overbake. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I use chocolate chips for the glaze?

Yes, high-quality chocolate chips melt well and make a smooth ganache.

Can I add whipped cream?

Yes, whipped cream makes a great filling between layers if you want a lighter touch.

Conclusion

Chocolate Boba Cake brings together rich chocolate decadence and playful tapioca pearls for a dessert that’s both elegant and exciting. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a personal treat, this cake offers a one-of-a-kind flavor and texture experience that’s truly unforgettable.

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